What GCSEs Do You Need To Be a Flight Attendant?
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What GCSEs do you need to be a flight attendant?
To meet the entry requirements for becoming a flight attendant, you will usually need 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including English and maths. This can be achieved through traditional GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, or through Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English, which are accepted by many training and apprenticeship providers. If you are wondering what GCSEs do you need to be a flight attendant, you should know that some courses may also ask for specific subjects, but requirements can vary between institutions. It’s important to check the criteria for your chosen university or training route.
If you’re unsure whether your current qualifications meet entry requirements, fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page. Our team can talk you through your options as well as advise whether Functional Skills or GCSEs are the most suitable route for you.
Can I become a flight attendant without GCSEs?
If you wondering if you can become a flight attendant without GCSEs, the answer is yes, in some cases. Some airlines require GCSEs in English and Maths, usually at grade 4/C or above, due to the communication and numeracy skills needed for the role. While some airlines may accept alternative qualifications, such as Functional Skills Level 2 in English and Maths, this is not guaranteed and varies between employers.
It is always a good idea to check the specific requirements of your airline before applying.
| Feature | GCSE | Functional Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted UK Wide Accepted UK Wide | ||
| Ofqual Regulated Ofqual Regulated | ||
| Suitable for Nursing Suitable for Nursing | ||
| Can Sit in May or Nov Can Sit in May or Nov | ||
| Can Sit All Year Round Can Sit All Year Round | ||
| Can Take Exam From Home Can Take Exam From Home | ||
| Results in 10 Working Days Results in 10 Working Days |
Why do you need GCSEs to become a flight attendant?
GCSEs are a common entry requirement for many flight attendant roles, particularly GCSE English and GCSE Maths. These show that you have strong communication and numeracy skills which are essential for delivering safety briefings, assisting passengers and handling onboard procedures effectively.
GCSE expectations vary between airlines but most employers require at least a grade 4/C or above in English and maths. When it comes to what GCSEs do you need to be a flight attendant, English is especially important, as flight attendants must communicate clearly with passengers from a range of backgrounds and follow detailed safety instructions. Apprenticeship providers often accept equivalents to these GCSEs in the form of Functional Skills qualifications at Level 2.
In addition to your English and maths qualifications, you will likely need to take other subjects. Subjects that develop communication, teamwork or customer service skills (such as foreign languages or social sciences) can be particularly useful and help strengthen your application.
What flight attendant routes can I take with GCSEs?
Once you know what GCSEs do you need to be a flight attendant, and have achieved them, you can apply directly to many airline cabin crew training programmes. These are usually provided by the airline itself rather than through university, although you can also do a Cabin Crew Level 3 apprenticeship through a provider.
Airline careers that you could go onto after this training include:
How do I book my GCSE exams?
Book your Ofqual-regulated GCSE exam for flight attendants with the expert Pass GCSE team. You can simply book online through the exam booking pages or complete the contact form at the bottom of the page. Their team will support you through the process and finalise your booking during a call.
Choose your preferred exam date, exam board, and tier. Maths and English GCSE exams are available in May or November each year. Prices include the full service, covering exam entry, finding a local exam centre and issuing your certificate.
To book Functional Skills exams instead of GCSEs in maths and English language, you can through Pass Functional Skills. You can book directly online using the links below:
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GCSEs to be a Flight Attendant Summary
Do I need GCSEs to become a flight attendant?
Yes, the majority of airlines will require Level 2 English and maths. This can be achieved through GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, or through Functional Skills Level 2, which are accepted by some airlines and apprenticeship providers. If the timeline of GCSEs is worrying you, you can take fast track GCSEs and complete your qualifications in under 12 months.
Are Functional Skills accepted for becoming a flight attendant?
Many apprenticeship routes accept Functional Skills Level 2 in English and maths as an alternative to GCSEs, especially for adult learners. Acceptance can vary, so when asking what GCSEs do you need to be a flight attendant it is important to check individual course requirements.
Can I become a flight attendant through an apprenticeship?
Yes, you can take a cabin crew level 3 apprenticeship to become a flight attendant. It will take around 12 months to complete, with on-the-job training.
What grade do I need in maths and English to be a flight attendant?
If you are taking GCSEs, most airlines ask for a minimum grade 4/C in maths and English. Functional Skills Level 2 are widely treated as equivalent.
Can Pass help me choose the right route into being a flight attendant?
Yes, our team can help you understand whether Functional Skills or GCSEs are the best option for your chosen career route and guide you through GCSE resits, courses and next steps.
Get in Touch
Get in touch with one of our friendly team and they will discuss your options and help you to determine what qualifications and subjects are right for you.
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