Checked on GCSE results day · 20 August 2026
A clear guide to GCSE grades 9 to 1, standard and strong passes, old letter-grade comparisons and combined-science grades.
In England, GCSE grades run from 9, the highest, to 1. Grade 4 aligns with the bottom of the old grade C and is commonly called a standard pass; grade 5 is commonly called a strong pass. Grades 7, 8 and 9 cover the performance previously associated with A and A*.
The scales do not match grade for grade. Ofqual aligns the bottom of grade 7 with the bottom of old A, the bottom of grade 4 with the bottom of old C, and the bottom of grade 1 with the bottom of old G. Grade 9 provides extra differentiation above the former A* threshold. Use the comparison as context, not as a conversion formula for every mark. Your official result is the number shown on the certificate.
There is no single national entry grade for every course. Providers set overall requirements and may require higher grades in the subjects you want to continue. Maths and English language can have separate conditions. Check the written offer, then speak to admissions if one grade is short. A provider may consider the complete profile or suggest a different programme, but it is not obliged to waive its requirements.
A useful grade is one that lets you take the next step you want. Grade 4 can satisfy many standard-pass requirements; selective courses may ask for 5, 6 or higher. A single result should be read alongside your other grades, course needs and available alternatives.
Continue with the question closest to your next decision. Each guide is source-checked and links back to the official service for case-specific action.
Revise Right is not an exam board. Check your school, college, awarding organisation or regulator before acting on a grade, review, appeal or resit deadline.
Grade 4 is commonly described as a standard pass in England and aligns with the bottom of the former grade C. A course or employer can still set a higher requirement.
Yes, grade 5 is commonly described as a strong pass. It sits between the old C and B reference points rather than mapping exactly to one letter.
The bottom of grade 7 is aligned with the bottom of the former grade A. Grades 7, 8 and 9 together cover the old A and A* range.
Grade 9 is the highest numbered grade and was introduced to differentiate the very strongest performance within the range previously covered at the top end.
Not for every GCSE. Qualification and grading arrangements differ across UK nations, so use the regulator and exam-board information for the qualification you actually took.