GCSE

What it is

General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) exams are the standard qualifications pupils in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland take during Key Stage 4. Universities often ask for grade 4/C or above in English Language and Maths regardless of the degree subject.

Adults who missed these exams can take Functional Skills Level 2 or GCSE resits through local colleges. International applicants can prove equivalence with national certificates or language test results, depending on the university policy.

Why it matters

Even if you hold advanced qualifications, missing GCSE English or Maths can hold up your application. Universities use these grades to check that you can handle academic writing and numeracy tasks from Week 1.

Student Finance teams may request evidence of your Maths and English level when reviewing certain teacher-training or healthcare courses. Having documentation ready speeds up both admissions and funding decisions.

Common mistakes

• Thinking work experience replaces GCSEs: Professional experience is valuable, but most universities still require a formal English and Maths pass.
• Submitting unofficial translations: Admissions teams need certified translations or statements of comparability for overseas certificates.
• Assuming Functional Skills are always accepted: Some courses insist on GCSE-specific grades, so always check the fine print.

How UniStart helps

Our advisors can explain which universities accept Functional Skills, iGCSEs, or international alternatives. We also share study resources in the app so you can prepare for resits without delaying your UCAS plan unnecessarily.

Next steps

• Upload your English and Maths certificates into the UniStart app for verification.
• Book a call to identify local colleges that offer fast-track GCSE courses.
• Read our article on proving overseas school qualifications to UK universities.