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Home » Curriculum » GCSE

  1. GCSE Facts
  2. GCSE Overview
  3. GCSE Subject Choices and Structure
  4. Questions About GCSE
  5. All Testimonials

GCSE Facts

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) provide students with a high-quality secondary education foundation which offers progression to A Level or UFP.

  • Ages:
    14+
  • Entry Requirements:
    At least 8 years of schooling with a good school record for our two-year programme
  • Language Requirements:
    IELTS 3.5+ (or equivalent)
  • Average class size:
    11
  • Hours per week:
    30+
  • Course duration:
    5 terms (January start)
    6 terms (September start)
  • International Fees:
    £38,515 (per year)
  • EU Fees:
    £31,715 (per year)
  • Domestic Fees:
    £22,080 (per year)
62%
of GCSE grades were A*-B
52%
of Mathematics grades were A*-A

Latest stats based on results in 2024

GCSE Overview

Classes are taught by subject specialists who are trained in how to teach students who have English as a second language.

The qualification encourages students to explore their academic potential and discover where their interests lie. The qualification is internationally recognised and is normally obtained after two years of study.

GCSE Qualifications in a wide range of subjects

Improved subject knowledge for university preparation programmes

English fluency and proficiency ready for university preparation programmes

Enhanced study skills required to excel in a chosen university preparation programme

Builds personal confidence and independence

Improved collaborative skills

GCSE Subject Choices and Structure

Compulsory subjects
English Language & Literature* | Maths | Physics | Chemistry | Biology | Physical Education
Choose between
French | Photography | History | Engaging with Technology
Choose between
Geography | Art & Design | Computer Science | Business
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“At CATS Cambridge, we identify the potential of every student and work with them to ensure they make the best progress they can make.”

Assistant Principal, Academic
Qadeer Afzal

Questions About GCSE

These programmes let you study a range of subjects that give you a good base knowledge before you go on to study in more detail. GCSEs are the standard route to further study, and ultimately to university, in the UK. All the top universities recognise the programme, and they are even widely recognised internationally by some of the best institutions across the world.

GCSEs are ideal for all students aged 14 onwards, in some instances students aged 13+ are considered. The programme allows you to study a range of subjects, and gives you the right preparation for your further study.

The GCSE programme is one of the ways that you can further your study in the UK and eventually enter university and study for an undergraduate degree. After you have finished GCSE you will normally have two years of high school left.

GCSEs are widely recognised by employers across the world. High grades are a great way for you to show that you can perform consistently and meet high academic standards. You’ll also learn how to study, ready to go on to A level/IB..

Students take a mixture of internal and external examinations. The main external exams take place in the summer term at the end of your GCSE course. To ensure students are well prepared we provide mock exams to aid in exam practice and preparation and to help teachers identify any areas needing improvement. English is also examined and awarded through IGCSE First Language English with an International English Language Testing System (IELTS) examination. Some subjects (such as the sciences) have an element of coursework which is written or practical work completed throughout the year and counts towards the overall grade.

GCSE results are published in June and August. Grades range from 9 (the highest possible grade, equivalent to A*) down to grade 1 and then finally to U (the lowest grade), although a ‘good pass’ is considered anything from 9 to 4.

All Testimonials

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