GCSE choices

At 13 or 14 you need to choose what subjects to study at GCSE level. 

What are GCSEs?

GCSEs are qualifications usually taken in Years 10-11. GCSEs get you ready for your next stage in education, training, or employment.

Good results in GCSEs can get you more options. But there are Post-16 learning opportunities for all.  

Crucial: Explore all GCSE subjects on the BBC Bitesize website. 

GCSE Maths, English and other compulsory subjects 

Compulsory subjects at GCSE level need to be retaken if you do not get the required grades. This always includes English and Maths.  

Crucial: Getting a grade 4 or above in English and Maths is also a requirement for lots of jobs and apprenticeships. 

GCSEs – you choose!

Choosing what you’d like to study can feel hard, but your school will help you decide. 

Age 13 or 14 might feel too early to be thinking about a career, but choices you make now can help you in the future.

Talk to your teachers or school careers adviser about the subjects you'll need for different careers, or research them yourself on the National Careers Service website.

My opinion: Young people can decide what they want to pick by choosing the options they think will help their future. Do NOT choose your options because of your friends, which teacher or by how hard it is. In my opinion I would choose options that can help you with your future, because you can combine them together to actually do something you’ve wanted. - Murat, 15, Oxford

Where can I study GCSEs?

Most young people to do their GCSEs at their local secondary school. 

There are other options for studying GCSEs. These include Further Education Colleges which take some students at age 14 to study GCSEs and do vocational courses. There are limited places, so talk to the college as early as possible.

There are also places for students who are home educated to study for GCSEs at local FE Colleges, though this can also be done entirely at home and organised by your parents or carers.