Parent FAQ: What are the new GCSE grades?
Understanding the GCSE grading system can make supporting your child much easier.
England now uses a 9–1 numerical scale, where 9 is the highest grade, and 1 is the lowest. This replaced the old A*–G system to give more detail, especially for high-achieving students.
Here’s what you need to know.
The GCSE 9–1 grading scale
| New Grade | Old Equivalent | What it means |
|---|---|---|
| 9 | High A* | Higher than the old A*; awarded to the very top performers |
| 8 | Low A* / High A | Excellent performance |
| 7 | A | A strong, secure A grade |
| 6 | High B | Above-average achievement |
| 5 | Low B / High C | A strong pass |
| 4 | C | The standard pass |
| 3 | D / E | Below pass level |
| 2 | E / F | Below pass level |
| 1 | G | Lowest grade |
| U | U | Unclassified — no grade awarded |
What counts as a pass?
There are two recognised pass levels:
-
Standard Pass (Grade 4):
Equivalent to the old Grade C and accepted by most post-16 providers.
-
Strong Pass (Grade 5):
Slightly higher than a C, often preferred for more competitive courses.
Entry requirements vary between schools and colleges, so it’s always worth checking if your child has a specific course in mind.
How are GCSE grades determined?
1. Exams
Most GCSE subjects are assessed mainly through written exams taken at the end of Year 11. These make up the bulk of the final grade.
2. Coursework / Non-Examined Assessment
A small number of subjects - like Art & Design, Drama, PE, and Design & Technology - include coursework or practical assessments that contribute to the final result.
3. Marking and standardisation
- Exams are marked by trained examiners.
- Ofqual monitors each exam board to ensure fairness.
- Grade boundaries are adjusted each year to keep standards consistent.
Do all subjects use the 9–1 scale?
Yes - with just one key exception:
- Combined Science awards two GCSE grades (e.g., 6–5, 7–7) because it counts as a double qualification.
Summary
- GCSEs are graded from 9 (highest) to 1 (lowest).
- Grade 4 = standard pass, Grade 5 = strong pass.
- Most grades come from final exams, with some subjects including coursework.
- Combined Science results in a double grade.
Clear grading helps you understand how your child is performing now, and what they need to improve next. Atom supports them with structured revision and steady progress every step of the way.