Quick answer: GCSE Maths is three written papers, one without a calculator, at Foundation (grades 1 to 5) or Higher (grades 4 to 9). Grade 4 is the standard pass that employers, colleges and universities ask for. You can resit it in November as well as the summer if you are 16 or over. Lift College teaches GCSE Mathematics (AQA 8300) online.
What is GCSE Maths?
GCSE Mathematics is the core maths qualification in England, graded 9 to 1. It covers number, algebra, ratio, proportion and rates of change, geometry and measures, probability and statistics. A grade 4 is a standard pass and a grade 5 a strong pass; many jobs, apprenticeships, teacher training and university courses ask for at least a 4.
How GCSE Maths is assessed
Swipe to compare →Scroll sideways to compare →
| Paper | Calculator | Length | Marks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paper 1 | Non-calculator | 1 hour 30 minutes | 80 |
| Paper 2 | Calculator | 1 hour 30 minutes | 80 |
| Paper 3 | Calculator | 1 hour 30 minutes | 80 |
Each paper is a third of the grade. Foundation tier leads to grades 1 to 5 and Higher tier to grades 4 to 9, so choose the tier with your tutor. You are given a formulae sheet in every paper, and Ofqual has confirmed it continues for the lifetime of the current GCSEs.
AQA, Edexcel and OCR
AQA, Pearson Edexcel and OCR all offer the GCSE; the comparison below is general information. All three cover the same Department for Education content, use three papers of 1 hour 30 minutes, and are graded 9 to 1. The differences are in question style and layout. Colleges and employers treat them the same. Lift College teaches AQA 8300.
When can you sit GCSE Maths?
GCSE English Language and Mathematics can be sat in November (candidates aged 16 and over); all other GCSEs are May and June only. On +Exams Lift College books the series you are ready for. Exam dates are set by AQA each year; check the AQA key dates page for the current timetable.
What topics come up?
- Number: fractions, decimals, percentages, powers, standard form and surds
- Algebra: expressions, equations, inequalities, sequences and graphs
- Ratio and proportion: compound measures, direct and inverse proportion
- Geometry: angles, area and volume, Pythagoras, trigonometry, transformations and vectors
- Probability and statistics: tree diagrams, averages, charts and sampling
How to revise
Use past papers
Past papers and mark schemes are free on AQA's past papers page. Do them timed, then mark them and fix every lost mark.
Practise without a calculator
Paper 1 tests arithmetic without a calculator, so keep written methods sharp.
Show your working
Method marks are given for correct working even when the final answer is wrong.
Resitting GCSE Maths as an adult
There is no upper age limit and no limit on attempts. Adults resit as private candidates at an exam centre or through a course that arranges the exam. Our guide to GCSE resits as an adult explains the options, and the GCSE resit pass rates for 2026 show how adults do.
Exam centres and access arrangements
On +Exams Lift College enters you and books your seat at one of ten Tutors & Exams centres across England. +Exams includes your exam entry and centre fee; on Study you arrange and pay for your own entry as a private candidate. Tell your tutor when you enrol; Tutors & Exams applies the approved arrangements to your entry.
Study GCSE Maths online with Lift College
GCSE Mathematics Online Course: Lift College teaches AQA 8300 with a named UK tutor and past paper practice. It costs from £33.99 a month on Study when you start now, 15% off for life, or £39.99 a month after a 7-day free trial. On +Exams it is £59.49 a month when you start now, then £69.99 a month after the trial.
The course takes 12 to 18 months, or faster if you study more each week. The course is open to anyone aged 14 or over, under 18s with a parent or guardian's permission and support.
Questions? Contact us. For a topic by topic breakdown, see our GCSE Maths complete guide.