How EBacc Performance is Calculated

The EBacc is a school performance measure rather than an individual qualification. Students do not receive an "EBacc certificate" but their achievement contributes to school performance metrics.

For Schools:

Schools are measured on two key metrics:

• EBacc Entry Rate: The percentage of students entering GCSEs in all five EBacc subject areas
• EBacc Average Point Score: The average grade achieved across the five EBacc subjects by all students

For Students:

To be counted as achieving the EBacc, students must achieve:

• Grade 5 or above in English Language
• Grade 5 or above in English Literature
• Grade 5 or above in Mathematics
• Grade 5 or above in two Sciences (either Combined Science or two separate sciences)
• Grade 5 or above in a Language
• Grade 5 or above in History or Geography

Pearson Edexcel

Coverage: The largest GCSE exam board in the UK

Standard Exam Times: 9:00 AM (morning) or 1:30 PM (afternoon)

AQA (Assessment and Qualifications Alliance)

Coverage: One of the largest exam boards in England, Wales and Northern Ireland

Standard Exam Times: 9:00 AM (morning) or 1:30 PM (afternoon)

OCR (Oxford, Cambridge and RSA)

Coverage: Major UK exam board offering traditional academic qualifications

Standard Exam Times: 9:00 AM (morning) or 1:30 PM (afternoon)

Department for Education - EBacc Information

The UK Government provides comprehensive information about the English Baccalaureate, including eligible qualifications and performance measures.

Benefits of the EBacc Pathway

University Recognition: Russell Group universities and top institutions actively encourage the EBacc subject combination as it demonstrates academic breadth and rigor.

Career Opportunities: The EBacc subjects are highly valued by employers across all sectors, particularly in STEM, business, law, and public service.

Keeps Options Open: Studying the full EBacc ensures no pathway is closed for further education, whether A-Levels, apprenticeships, or vocational courses.

Improved Performance: Research by the Sutton Trust shows that studying EBacc subjects improves overall performance in English and Mathematics.

Social Mobility: The UCL Institute of Education found that EBacc subjects increase the likelihood of staying in full-time education and accessing higher-level qualifications.

Is the EBacc a qualification?

No, the EBacc is a performance measure, not a qualification. Students do not receive an EBacc certificate. It measures achievement across five key GCSE subject areas.

Do I have to study all five EBacc subjects?

No, students are not required to study the EBacc subjects. However, schools are measured on how many students enter and achieve in these subjects, and they offer the broadest opportunities for further study and careers.

Can I count Computer Science toward the EBacc?

Yes, Computer Science GCSE can count toward the science pillar of the EBacc if students take it alongside two other sciences (triple science route).

What grade do I need to achieve the EBacc?

To be counted as achieving the EBacc, students need grade 5 or above in English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, two sciences (or Combined Science), a language, and History or Geography.

Which languages count toward the EBacc?

Any modern or ancient foreign language GCSE counts, including French, Spanish, German, Italian, Mandarin Chinese, Arabic, Latin, Ancient Greek, and many others. Check the official eligible qualifications list.

Can I take both History and Geography?

Yes, students can take both, though only one is required for the EBacc. Taking both demonstrates strong humanities knowledge.

What if I'm taking exams with different exam boards?

Many schools use different exam boards for different subjects. Ensure you know which board for each subject and check the specific timetable and requirements for each.