GCSE Grades Explained
Understand the 9–1 GCSE grading system: pass grades, old letter equivalents, and what each grade means for sixth form.
Frequently asked questions
What grades are a pass in GCSE?
Grade 4 is a standard pass (old grade C). Grade 5 is a strong pass. Most sixth forms require at least grade 4 in English and Maths.
What is the 1–9 GCSE grading system?
GCSEs use grades 9 (highest) to 1 (lowest), with U for ungraded. Introduced from 2017 to replace A*–G letters.
What is a 3 in GCSE?
Grade 3 is below the standard pass — broadly equivalent to the old grade D. English and Maths may require resits.
How does GCSE grading work?
Exam boards set grade boundaries after each exam series. Boundaries vary by subject, board and year — see our grade boundaries guide.