Understanding GCSE Grades 2025: What the 9–1 System Really Means

If your teen is sitting their GCSEs soon, you’ve probably heard talk about grade boundaries and the 9–1 grading system. It can sound confusing at first — especially if you grew up with A*s and Cs! Don’t worry — here’s a clear, friendly guide to help you make sense of it all.

GCSE Results 2025: The Big Picture

This year, the overall GCSE pass rate has dipped slightly compared with 2024. Around 67.4% of all grades across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland were a 4 (or C) and above.

In England, GCSEs are now graded on a numerical scale from 9 to 1, instead of the old A–U system. Meanwhile, Wales and Northern Ireland still use different grading systems — more on that below.

How Does the 9–1 GCSE Grading System Work?

The 9–1 system was introduced gradually from 2017, beginning with English and Maths. By 2020, every subject was using the new scale.

Here’s how it works:

• 9 is the highest grade (even higher than the old A*).

• 1 is the lowest.

• U still means ungraded.

It’s not a simple swap from letters to numbers, but some points do line up:

• Grade 7 ≈ Grade A

• Grade 4 ≈ Grade C

• Grade 1 ≈ Grade G

• Grades 9, 8, and 7 cover what used to be A–A*

So, if your child gets:

• 9 → a top A*

• 8 → a lower A* or strong A

• 7 → a solid A

• 6 → a high B

• 5 → a strong C / low B

• 4 → a standard C pass

What Counts as a “Pass”?

There are two types of passes:

• Standard Pass: Grade 4

• Strong Pass: Grade 5

While grades 1–3 are technically still passes, many sixth forms and colleges ask for 5s or 6s in key subjects to continue studying.
If a student scores below a 3 in Maths or English Language, they’ll need to resit the exam next year.

Who Decides the Grade Boundaries?

Every year, examiners set grade boundaries — the minimum marks needed for each grade.
These are published on results day by exam boards, helping teachers and students understand how raw marks translate to grades.

Why Were GCSEs Changed?

The new system was part of a curriculum overhaul in 2014, designed to:

• Make exams more challenging

• Put more focus on final exams (less on coursework)

• Differentiate between top-performing students more clearly

The changes were meant to give employers and universities a clearer picture of a student’s achievements.

What About Wales and Northern Ireland?

• Wales has kept the familiar A–G* grading, introduced new courses in 2015, and made some updates to English, Welsh, and Maths.

• Northern Ireland uses a mix: the A–G* system with an extra C* grade, and in some cases, students also receive 9–1 grades if they take exams from English boards.

Final Thoughts

The move to 9–1 grades has certainly made things more detailed, but it also allows for greater recognition of students’ hard work and achievement.

If your child is preparing for GCSEs, remember — understanding the system is just the first step. The key to success lies in consistent practice, targeted revision, and the right support.

At Atolan Academy, we’re here to guide every student towards their personal best — whatever their target grade might be. 🌟