Retaking your Maths GCSE
More than 167,000 students in England received grade 3 or lower on their maths paper, about 21,000 more than in 2022, meaning thousands will be resitting their maths GCSE exams this year or next.
In England, students need maths and English GCSEs at grade 4 or above to qualify for further study - yet, last year, only 20% of those retaking their maths GCSEs passed. So, is it worth resisting your Maths GCSE? We find out.
Do I need to retake my Maths GCSE?
Retaking your maths GCSE if you fail depends on your age, where you live and your plans for the future.
If you are under 18, you must continue studying maths until you pass or turn 18. This is a requirement of the government, designed to ensure that all young people have the basic maths skills they need for everyday life and work.
If you're over 18, you do not have to retake maths GCSE. However, you may want to retake the exam if you need GCSE maths for your plans. For example, you may need it as a basic requirement to get a job, enter a college course, or apply for a future university degree.
What are the benefits of retaking maths GCSE?
It can improve your job prospects.
A Maths GCSE can improve your job prospects in the UK as many employers require it, even if the job does not involve a lot of maths. This is because employers value the skills of studying maths, such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, and logical reasoning.
It can help you get into a college course or university degree.
UCAS does not require Maths GCSE for all degrees, but many universities do. Always check the entry requirements for the courses you are interested in to see if a Maths GCSE is required.
It can boost your confidence.
Several studies show passing maths improves your confidence. For example, a study published in the journal "Educational Psychology" found that students who passed their maths GCSE exam were more likely to report feeling confident in their academic abilities and ability to succeed in school. Another study, published in the journal "Learning and Individual Differences", found that students who passed their maths GCSE exam were more likely to have a positive self-image and to feel good about themselves.
It can boost your earnings.
Having a Maths GCSE can help you to earn more. Studies have shown that people with this qualification earn more than those without one. For example, a study by the Department for Education found that people with a GCSE maths qualification earn an average of £200,000 more over their lifetimes than those without one.
There are several reasons why having GCSE maths can help you to earn more. First, many jobs require a GCSE maths qualification, even if the job does not involve a lot of maths. Second, a GCSE maths qualification can help you get a university degree. Many courses require a GCSE maths qualification, especially in STEM subjects such as science, technology, engineering, and maths. Once you have a degree, you will be more likely to get a job with a higher-than-average wage.
Where can I retake Maths GCSE?
If you decide to retake maths GCSE, you can do so anytime. There is no age limit for retaking the exam, and a few different ways to retake your maths GCSE.
If you are still enrolled, you can retake the exam with your school or college. This is often the most convenient option, as you will be familiar with the teaching staff and the learning environment.
You can retake the exam with an independent exam centre. This is a good option if you are no longer enrolled in school or college or prefer to study independently.
You can retake the exam with an independent exam centre. This is a good option if you are no longer enrolled in school or college or prefer to study independently.
Take a functional skills maths qualification. Functional skills maths qualifications are equivalent to GCSE maths grades 4 and above and are designed to help adults develop the maths skills they need for everyday life and work.
To retake your maths GCSE, you must register for the exam with an exam centre. You can do this online or by phone. Once you have registered, you need to pay an exam fee.
You can prepare for your maths GCSE by studying the syllabus and practising past papers. You can also find a tutor to help you with your studies (see below).
How can I ensure I pass Maths?
Start studying early. Give yourself plenty of time to review the material and practice your skills.
Use practice papers. Practice papers are a great way to prepare for your exam. They will help you get used to the format of the exam and the types of questions that will be asked.
Get help from a tutor. If you are struggling with a particular topic, consider getting help from a tutor. We know from our data that the most in-demand tuition subject in the UK is Maths at primary level, GCSE, A-Level and higher.
Use Maths resources. Make use of all the resources available to help you. National Numeracy can help you improve your Maths. MyMaths provides interactive lessons, booster packs for revision, worksheets, and a wealth of GCSE and A-Level resources. Also, access YouTube for channels like Mathematics and influencers giving you their best maths GCSE tips like Unjaded Jade.
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