The GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) is one of the main educational qualifications in the UK, typically obtained at the age of sixteen at the end of Year eleven. Although GCSEs are not recognized as university entrance exams, they serve as the foundation for more advanced qualifications such as A-Level and IB, and are used as a measure of students’ academic success. Almost all students in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland take GCSEs in several subjects, including mathematics (which is a mandatory subject).

The GCSE mathematics course covers fundamental topics in number, algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability, ensuring that all students acquire the necessary numerical skills. Mathematics exams are usually divided into several sections, including non-calculator and calculator sections. There are two entry levels for this exam: foundation level (easier questions with scores from one to five) and higher level (more difficult questions with scores from four to nine), allowing students of varying abilities to be appropriately assessed. Assessment typically includes two to three tests with a mix of short questions and multi-step problems.

Currently, GCSE grading in England is based on a numerical grading system from nine to one, where nine is the highest score and four is considered the standard passing mark. Achieving a minimum score of four in mathematics is regarded as a basic pass, and top students strive for scores of eight or nine. In Wales and Northern Ireland, grades A* to G are still used.

Although GCSE results alone do not lead to university admission, they are very important for acceptance into A-Level or IB programs and future university applications. For example, sixth form colleges typically require five or more GCSEs with grades nine to four(A–C), including mathematics and English. Top universities may also pay attention to GCSE profiles, especially in competitive fields like medicine. GCSE or IGCSE (International General Certificate of Secondary Education) exams are conducted in many schools with a British curriculum worldwide, including some in the Middle East and Asia. For Persian-speaking students, familiarity with GCSE is particularly important if they intend to join the British educational system. Some Iranian students abroad or in international schools take IGCSE before entering A-Level or IB. A good score in GCSE mathematics indicates strong foundational skills. It’s worth noting that the national curriculum in Iran does not use GCSE, but some families may seek to study IGCSE mathematics privately due to its international recognition.