Functional Skills
Functional Skills are Ofqual-regulated English, maths and ICT qualifications at Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2. Functional Skills Level 2 in English or maths is formally recognised by UK employers and universities as equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 in the same subject.
Key facts
- Levels: Entry Level 1 to 3, Level 1 and Level 2 on the Regulated Qualifications Framework.
- Subjects: English, maths and ICT.
- GCSE equivalence: Functional Skills Level 2 in English or maths is formally recognised by UK employers, apprenticeship providers and universities as equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 (formerly a grade C).
- Regulator: Ofqual, with qualifications delivered by awarding bodies including Pearson Edexcel, AQA, TQUK and Open Awards.
- Assessment: A combination of controlled onscreen or paper-based assessments, taken at approved UK exam centres.
- Typical use: Meeting the English and maths entry requirements for apprenticeships, nursing associate and healthcare roles, teacher training, and Level 3 vocational qualifications.
Functional Skills vs GCSE
Functional Skills and GCSE are separate qualifications aimed at different learners. GCSEs are the standard school-leaver qualification, graded 9 to 1, and typically taken during Key Stage 4. Functional Skills is an adult and vocational qualification, pass or fail, focused on the applied use of English and maths in work and daily life. UK apprenticeships and most nursing and healthcare routes accept either Functional Skills Level 2 or GCSE grade 4 as the entry requirement.
Available subjects at Lift College
Related
For the full explanation of what Functional Skills are, who they are for and how they compare with GCSEs, read the full Functional Skills guide. For the A to Z of qualifications, see the glossary.