What Are the GCSE Requirements for University?

Each university sets its own entry requirements for access. They usually consist of a combination of UCAS points, completion of certain relevant course subjects, possible entry exams, and, in most cases, pre-16 qualifications such as GCSEs or an equivalent. 

Entry requirements, in general, vary greatly across each university or college and depend on the course you choose. UCAS points and completion of specific courses are a requirement to ensure you can work at an appropriate level and have the relevant subject knowledge. 

In this article, you’ll learn more about GCSEs, why they are important, and the GCSE requirements for universities across various institutions. You’ll also discover tips on what to do if you didn’t get the GCSE grades you hoped for.

What are GCSEs?

GCSEs, which stands for General Certificates of Secondary Education, are pre-16 qualifications taken as part of the National Curriculum by students aged 14 to 16. Schools allow students to choose the GCSE tests they wish to take, with some core subjects that everyone must study, including English, maths, and science. While you typically study for GCSEs in school, they are available to anyone at any age. 

Why are GCSEs still important at this stage?

Even though degrees are much higher than GCSEs, you’ll still see GCSE requirements for university courses. This is for two main reasons. Firstly, your GCSEs are likely your most recent qualification because when you apply for university, if you are still at school, you won’t have had your A-level results at this stage. Therefore, your GCSEs indicate your level of study and how well you’re likely to do at A level. Universities tend to ask for specific GCSE grades relevant to the degree subjects and level, such as GCSE maths and English. 

Secondly, your GCSEs give you a basic level of knowledge in a subject that universities deem important for the course you’re applying for to build on and expand your knowledge through a degree.

What are the GCSE requirements for university?

GCSE requirements vary according to the university you apply to and the course you choose. It’s important to check the GCSE requirements before completing your UCAS university undergraduate application because you risk your application being rejected if you don’t have the GCSE grades required. 

Although requirements vary, most universities and courses require at least a grade 4 in English and maths. Some universities also ask for a GCSE in science at this level, while others have higher requirements depending on the course level and expect GCSEs in more than these subjects. 

Some examples of university GCSE requirements are below:

• University of Edinburgh: English grade 4, maths grade 6, science (depending on the course). For competitive courses, the university considers GCSE grade 8/9 alongside A Level results

• University of Manchester: English and maths grade 4/5, with additional specific requirements for certain courses

• University of Warwick: English and maths grade 4, with some subjects having requirements above this minimum 

• University of Cambridge: No GCSE requirements for entry, but the university considers results in the context of your overall performance at school and academic credibility 

• University of Birmingham: Minimum of grade 4 in GCSE maths and English 

What do I do if I don’t meet the GCSE requirements?

If you are at the stage where you are applying for a university place and you don’t have level 4/5 in maths and English or the result specified in the course requirements, you’ll find many options you can consider. These include choosing another university, retaking the GCSEs, going through clearing, and seeking prior learning recognition. Let's look at each option in detail.

Choose another university.

When you don’t meet the GCSE requirements of your first choice university, you might face rejection for a place if you apply. It’s up to you whether you want to take the chance, but it might make more sense to choose a university where you do meet the entry requirements. 

Different universities have different entry criteria, so there’s a strong chance you can find the same course at a different university where entry requirements are more in your favour.

If you don’t have the GCSE requirements but have something equivalent, it is worth calling the university to see if they will accept your alternative. 

Retake them before applying.

If you have the time, you can resit your GCSE exams before applying for university to ensure you get onto the course you want. 

Go through clearing. 

If you have your heart set on a particular course and know you haven’t met the GCSE requirements, you can apply through clearing. Clearing is a way for universities to fill any places they have left, and they sometimes allow access with lower grades than originally stipulated.

Seek recognition of prior learning.

Sometimes universities accept mature students who don’t meet GCSE requirements based on previous experience under “Recognition of Prior Learning.” Here, universities recognise the contribution of experience in learning, and if you have a career background in the subject in question, this may work in your favour. 

How to prepare for your GCSE exam

If you’re yet to take your GCSE exams and want to make sure you pass with a grade strong enough to get you into the university of your choice, look at our top tips for preparing for your GCSE exams. 

Make a revision plan: Organise yourself with a timetable for revision. This allows you to divide your time where it matters and keeps you focused.

Use memory aids: Memory aids such as flashcards, study apps, lists, and a simple method of write-learn-repeat can help you with your revision. 

Look after yourself: Remember to take your time and not put too much pressure on yourself. Start early and organise yourself, but take regular breaks, mix your studying with things you love to do, and get plenty of rest. Balance is key.

Get started with Coursera.

Are you planning to apply for a university degree? Why not consider studying for your degree online? On Coursera, you’ll find a range of degree courses available in various subjects.