Functional Skills Maths Level 2 Pass Mark Graph Image

Functional Skills Maths Level 2 Pass Mark

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PFS Team November 26, 2025

Introduction to Functional Skills

Functional Skills qualifications in maths and English are designed to help people build the practical numeracy and literacy skills they need for everyday life, work and further study. A Level 2 qualification is widely accepted as equivalent to a GCSE grade C or 4, so it is often taken by learners who want to progress into higher education or improve their job prospects. With remote exams and flexible preparation options available, many people choose functional skills as a more manageable route to achieving this important milestone. So, what is the functional skills maths level 2 pass mark?

Functional Skills Pass Mark Helpline: 020 4574 9155





 

Functional Skills Maths Level 2 Pass Mark Across Exam Boards

Although learners often search for a single clear number, functional skills pass marks are not fixed. Each exam board sets its own boundaries. These figures can shift from paper to paper, depending on how difficult the test version is. The numbers below are general guidance only and may change at any time.

 

Exam Board Total Marks Pass Mark Extra Info
City & Guilds 60 29 to 31 This is the typical pass range.
Open Awards 60 36 Maths level 2 assessments are built around this design target for a minimally competent learner. After awarding and standardisation, the exact pass mark may move slightly for each version.
Pearson Edexcel 64 37 to 38 This indicative pass percentage of 59% can move slightly between test versions.
TQUK 60 33 to 36 TQUK use real learner performance data to set pass marks at the start of every new exam cycle.

Overall, most learners find that the functional skills maths level 2 pass mark generally sits somewhere between 50 and 60 percent, although each board makes adjustments to keep the standard fair.

Factors That Affect the Pass Mark

Pass marks change because each assessment is different. Some papers turn out slightly harder than expected, while others are a little more straightforward. Exam boards study real performance data to make sure that a learner sitting a tougher paper is not unfairly disadvantaged. If a test is more challenging, the pass mark is usually set lower. If a test is easier, the pass mark may be adjusted upwards. This careful approach ensures that the qualification remains consistent across the year.

Why There Is Not a Set Functional Skills Maths Level 2 Pass Mark

It might seem easier if everyone used a single fixed percentage, but papers vary in difficulty. Awarding bodies want every learner to have the same chance of success, no matter which version they sit. Because of this, the functional skills maths level 2 pass mark must remain flexible. This system keeps standards stable and ensures the qualification is trusted by employers, universities and training providers.

How to Improve Your Chances of Passing

While the exact mark may move, the best way to boost your confidence is good preparation. A structured functional skills maths level 2 course can make a big difference because it guides you through the whole curriculum, starting from the basics and building towards full mock exams. Our online materials are made in-house so they stay up to date and match the style of the real assessments, which is one reason our learners consistently outperform national averages. The pass rate for functional skills maths with our learners is significantly higher than that of other providers.

Alongside a course, use past papers, practise weaker topics, and space out revision sessions over a few weeks to help you feel much more prepared. Small, regular study sessions are usually more effective than rushing everything into a single weekend.

By working steadily and using the right resources, you give yourself a strong chance of meeting the functional skills pass mark on your first attempt.

How Resits Work if You Do Not Pass First Time

If things do not go to plan the first time, you are welcome to resit your exam – the process is simple. Our resit support team can help you book a new date and identify the best way to prepare. Many learners find that reviewing their weaker areas, using another mock exam and taking a bit more time to revise gives them the boost they need. The pass rate for functional skills maths tends to improve significantly once learners have had the chance to revise with targeted support.

Functional Skills Pass Mark Helpline: 020 4574 9155

 

Final Thoughts

The functional skills maths level 2 pass mark moves slightly between papers, but this is nothing to worry about. With the right preparation, clear guidance, and plenty of practice, you can approach the exam with confidence. Whether it is your first attempt or a resit, strong support and well-structured revision can help you achieve the result you need.

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Written by

Pass Functional Skills Team

We help thousands of students each year with revision, courses and online exams.