Failed GCSEs? Here's what to do next

Not getting the GCSE results you hoped for can feel like a setback.

You might be worried about what happens next, whether you’ll still be able to study your A Levels, get a job, get onto a course, or follow the career path you had planned.

The good news is that there are several ways you can get back on track.

And the first step is simple: find out what you need for your next step.

Check what you need

Before deciding which GCSEs to retake, check the entry requirements for the college, sixth form, apprenticeship, job or course you want to apply for.

You might need:

• a certain number of GCSEs
• specific grades in certain subjects
• GCSE English & maths

You probably don't need to retake everything.

For example, you might already have the English and maths grades you need but be missing a particular GCSE subject required for the course you want to study.

Focus on the qualifications you actually need, rather than trying to improve every grade.

Make English and maths a priority

When you start looking at your options, you'll probably notice that English and maths come up again and again.

That's because GCSE English and maths are entry requirements for many college courses, apprenticeships, jobs and other routes into further education and work. A grade 4/C is commonly the minimum requirement, although the exact grade and qualification needed can vary.

So, if you haven't achieved the English or maths grade you need, it's worth making these subjects a priority.

Getting the required passes can open up a much wider range of options.

That doesn't necessarily mean you have to put everything else on hold until you pass them. Depending on your circumstances and what you're planning to do, you may be able to study English or maths alongside another qualification, course or apprenticeship.

If you've already got the English and maths grades you need, great. You can then focus on any other GCSEs or specific grades required for your chosen pathway.

Work out what else you need

Once you've checked the entry requirements, look at whether you're missing any other GCSE subjects or grades.

This is particularly important if you're aiming for a course that asks for specific GCSE subjects or grades.

For example, you might need:

• a certain grade in science for a particular course
• a specific GCSE subject for further study
• a certain number of GCSEs at grade 4 or above
• higher grades if you're applying for a more competitive course.

Make a note of any subjects or grades you still need. This will give you a clear idea of which qualifications to work towards and help you choose the most suitable route for getting them.

Can you retake GCSEs?

Yes! If you don't get the grades you need, you can usually retake GCSEs later. There is no general upper age limit for taking GCSE exams

You don't have to retake every subject. If you've achieved the grades you need in most of your GCSEs, you can focus on the one or two subjects where you need to improve your results.

If you've just finished Year 11, your school or college may be able to help you arrange a retake. If you've already left school, there are other options too. You may be able to study through a college or training provider, take an online GCSE course or enter your exams as a private candidate through an approved exam centre.

The best option will depend on the subjects you need, how you prefer to study and how quickly you want to achieve your new grades.

Studying GCSEs online

If you're only retaking one or two subjects and would prefer not to return to a traditional school or college environment, studying GCSEs online offers more flexibility over where and when you study.

Online courses allow you to study from home and fit your learning around work, family commitments or other responsibilities.

Don't want to retake your GCSEs?

Retaking GCSEs isn't your only option. Depending on what you want to do next, there may be other qualifications and routes worth considering.

Functional Skills

Functional Skills qualifications can be an alternative to GCSEs in English and maths.

They focus on practical, real-life skills and may suit you if you prefer a different approach to traditional GCSE study. Assessments can also be available throughout the year, so you may be able to complete the qualification without waiting for the next GCSE exam period.

However, Functional Skills aren't accepted as a replacement for GCSEs in every situation. Some colleges, courses, apprenticeships and employers specifically ask for GCSEs or particular grades, so always check the entry requirements first.

Vocational qualifications

If you'd prefer a more practical and career-focused route, a vocational qualification could be worth considering.

There are a range of Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications available, including BTECs and other vocational courses. Depending on the qualification, you could progress to further study, an apprenticeship or employment.

Entry requirements vary, and some courses allow you to work towards English and maths alongside your main qualification.

Apprenticeships

If you'd like to start working while gaining a qualification, an apprenticeship could be another option.

You'll earn a wage while gaining practical experience and working towards a recognised qualification. Apprenticeships are available across a wide range of industries, so you may be able to find one that fits your interests and career goals.

Entry requirements vary. If you haven't achieved the English or maths grades you need, you may be able to work towards them as part of your apprenticeship.

Summary

Not getting the GCSE results you wanted can feel like a big deal, but it doesn't mean you're stuck.

Start by working out what you actually need for your next step. Check the entry requirements, see whether you need English and maths, and make a note of any other subjects or grades you're missing.

Then, it's just a case of finding the route that works for you. You could retake your GCSEs at college, study online or enter as a private candidate. Or, depending on what you want to do, you could look at alternatives such as Functional Skills, vocational qualifications or an apprenticeship.

You might find that you only need to retake one or two subjects to get back on track.

If studying from home sounds like a good fit, our online GCSE courses give you the flexibility to study around your life and work towards the qualifications you need. Thousands of students have improved their grades by studying online instead with Open Study College.

Alternatively, if you have any questions or feel stuck on what to do next, feel free to call our super friendly education specialists on 0121 329 4656 to discuss your options!