Overview of GCSE grades calculation

GCSE grades are calculated based on a student’s performance in their exams and coursework throughout the academic year. The final grade is determined by a combination of factors, including the student’s raw exam scores, coursework marks, and any additional assessments or practical components.

Raw exam scores

Raw exam scores are the marks that students receive on their written exams. These scores are usually expressed as a percentage or a numerical value, and they form the basis of the student’s final grade. The higher the raw exam score, the higher the final grade is likely to be.

Coursework marks

Coursework marks refer to the marks that students receive for their ongoing assessments and projects throughout the year. These marks are typically determined by the student’s teachers and are used to assess the student’s understanding of the subject matter and their ability to apply it in real-world situations.

Additional assessments and practical components

In some subjects, students may be required to complete additional assessments or practical components as part of their coursework. These could include experiments in science subjects, performances in music or drama, or presentations in English or history. These components are taken into account when calculating the student’s final grade.

Weighting of different components

Each component of the GCSE grade calculation is assigned a certain weight, which determines how much it contributes to the final grade. For example, exams may be weighted more heavily than coursework, or practical components may be given extra weight in certain subjects. The weighting of each component can vary depending on the subject and the exam board.