How does the GCSE grading system work?

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) grading system in the United Kingdom is used to assess students’ academic achievements at the end of secondary school. The grading system has recently undergone some changes to make it more challenging and to better differentiate between students’ performances.

Each GCSE subject is graded on a scale from 1 to 9, with 9 being the highest grade. The grades are awarded based on a combination of written exams, coursework, and other assessments. The old A*-G grading system has been phased out in favor of this new numerical system.

Grade 4 is considered a “standard pass” and grade 5 is considered a “strong pass.” Grades 6, 7, 8, and 9 are equivalent to B and above in the old system, with grade 9 being reserved for exceptional performance.

Overall, the GCSE grading system is designed to provide a clear and fair assessment of students’ abilities and to help them progress to further education or employment. It is important for students to understand how the system works and to strive for the best possible grades in order to achieve their future goals.