Understanding the 9-1 Grade Scale

Since 2017, all GCSEs in England use the 9-1 grading system (replacing the old A*-G system). The 9-1 scale provides more differentiation at the top end, helping universities and employers distinguish high achievers.

Grade Descriptions

• Grade 9: Highest grade - exceptional performance (top ~3% of students nationally)
• Grade 8: Equivalent to high A* in old system
• Grade 7: Equivalent to low A* or high A in old system
• Grade 6: Equivalent to high B in old system
• Grade 5: Strong Pass - equivalent to high C (government benchmark for "good pass")
• Grade 4: Standard Pass - equivalent to low C (minimum requirement for many sixth forms)
• Grade 3: Equivalent to D in old system
• Grade 2: Equivalent to E in old system
• Grade 1: Equivalent to F/G in old system
• U (Ungraded): Below grade 1 - not recorded on certificate

Pearson Edexcel

Coverage: One of the three main GCSE exam boards in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland

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

Key Feature: Offers both traditional GCSEs and vocational qualifications (BTECs)

AQA (Assessment and Qualifications Alliance)

Coverage: The largest GCSE exam board in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland

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

Key Feature: Most popular board for Mathematics and English qualifications

OCR (Oxford, Cambridge and RSA)

Coverage: Major GCSE exam board offering traditional academic qualifications

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

Key Feature: Strong reputation for Sciences and Cambridge Nationals qualifications

WJEC / Eduqas

Coverage: Primary exam board for Wales; also operates in England as Eduqas

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

Key Feature: Welsh-medium qualifications available; English Literature and Language specialization

CCEA

Coverage: Council for the Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (Northern Ireland only)

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

Key Feature: Northern Ireland curriculum specifications

Thursday, 20th August 2026

What to Expect

• Results released to schools on Wednesday, 19th August (day before students)
• Students collect results at school from 8:00-10:00 AM (check your school's specific time)
• Results arrive in a sealed envelope containing all subject grades
• Some schools may email results or post them if you cannot attend in person
• Teachers and senior staff available for advice and guidance on results day
• Sixth form colleges may require immediate enrollment decisions

If Results Are Not As Expected

• Don't panic: Speak to teachers and your school's careers advisor about options
• Review of Marking: Request via your school if you believe marking is incorrect (fees apply, refunded if grade changes)
• Access to Scripts: View your marked exam papers to see where marks were lost
• Resits: GCSEs can be retaken in November 2026 or summer 2027 (English and Maths only in November)
• Alternative Pathways: Explore vocational courses (BTECs), apprenticeships, or employment with training
• UCAS Clearing: Does not apply to GCSEs (only A-Level/university clearing)

When do GCSE exams start and finish in 2026?

The timetable information on this page lists the GCSE 2026 exam window from Monday, 4th May 2026 to Friday, 26th June 2026. Students should always confirm their final personalised timetable with their school.

When is GCSE results day 2026?

GCSE results day is listed as Thursday, 20th August 2026. Schools receive results one day earlier, on Wednesday, 19th August 2026, before releasing them to students.

What is the GCSE contingency day in 2026?

The contingency day is listed as Wednesday, 24th June 2026. Students should remain available until this date in case an exam has to be moved because of a national or local disruption.

Which exam boards are covered on this page?

This guide includes timetable links and guidance for Pearson Edexcel, AQA, OCR, WJEC/Eduqas and CCEA. Your school may use different boards for different subjects, so check every subject separately.

Is this page my final GCSE timetable?

No. This page is a planning guide. Your final source is the personalised timetable issued by your school or exam centre, because subjects, tiers, boards, room arrangements and candidate details vary by student.

What should I check before the GCSE exam period?

Check your exam board, subject code, tier, paper number, date, start time, room, seat number and required equipment. Report any errors to your examinations officer as early as possible.

Can I resit my GCSEs?

Yes. English Language and Mathematics can usually be retaken in the November series. Other GCSE subjects are normally retaken in a later summer series. Your school or college will advise on entry rules and fees.

What happens if I miss a GCSE exam?

Contact your school immediately. If there is a valid reason such as serious illness or emergency, your school may advise on special consideration or any permitted contingency process. Missing an exam without a valid reason can result in zero marks for that paper.

Do I choose Foundation or Higher tier?

For tiered subjects such as Maths and Science, Foundation tier usually allows grades 5-1, while Higher tier allows grades 9-3. Your teachers will advise based on your target grade, evidence from mock exams and confidence with higher-demand content.