GCSE Resits
You can resit English and maths GCSE exams every November, with the option to retake any subject in Summer 2026. There are no limits on the number of times you can retake your maths or English GCSE exams and anyone is eligible to resit.
Alternatively, you might consider taking an equivalent qualification, such as a Functional Skills Level 2 or a GCSE equivalency test. These exams can be completed online from home 7 days a week, with results typically available within 1-6 working days.
Below, you’ll find all the essential information about retaking GCSE exams and alternative qualifications.
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GCSE Resits Online?
If you’re looking to improve your grades or gain a qualification for the first time, sitting your GCSE resit online is a very appealing option. Pass GCSE offer bespoke online GCSE courses for key GCSE subjects with their online maths GCSE course, online English GCSE course, online biology GCSE course and online science GCSE course. The courses have the added benefit of offering remote round-the-clock learning so you can fit your studying around your other life commitments. The courses are structured to follow the curriculum specific to your exam board and tier (foundation/higher) and you can work through them at your own pace when it suits you. Unfortunately GCSE resit exams online aren’t available and must be sat at a registered GCSE exam centre where you will be entered as a private candidate during one of the official exam periods. There are other options available, though, which can be sat entirely online.
Book Your Resit
Get in touch with our team or browse the GCSE exam booking options from Pass GCSE and select you exam date, exam board and tier.
Prepare for Your Resit
Pass GCSE’s online GCSE courses are ideal for those preparing for a resit. Make use of their curriculum-specific structured courses to get exam ready.
Sit Your Exam
When you’re ready, sit your exam at a local GCSE exam centre and gain a qualification to help achieve your goals. It is important to prepare well for your exam with plenty of practise.
Functional Skills
As mentioned before, GCSE exams can not be sat remotely and also must be sat during an official exam period (May/June or November). If you are wanting to gain your qualification quicker than this or would prefer to be able to sit your exam remotely at a time of your convenience, functional skills may be the perfect alternative. Level 2 functional skills are equivalent to getting a GCSE at grade 4 or C which is vital for many educational and employment opportunities. The course content of functional skills focuses more on real-world practical applications, demonstrating your knowledge of key skills to employers and also your ability to apply them. Functional skills are the most widely recognised alternative to a GCSE and could unlock the door to many opportunities from employers or higher education where a grade 4 or C is a requirement. They can be sat entirely online all throughout the year, with results in as little as 1 working day, allowing for much greater freedom than traditional GCSE exams.
GCSE Equivalency
Alternatively, you can take a GCSE equivalency exam in maths, English, science, or biology online from the comfort of your home. These exams are shorter than traditional GCSEs and often combine multiple GCSE papers into a single test. Dedicated online equivalency courses tailored for adult learners are also available from A Star Equivalency.
GCSE equivalency exams allow you to achieve grades higher than a grade 4, making them ideal for those aiming for a grade 5 or above. They are widely recognised by universities and professional bodies worldwide, making them particularly suitable for those pursuing a career in teaching. Results are usually provided within 10 working days, with a fast-track option available for results in just 2 working days.
For adult learners looking to resit GCSE Maths or English online, we recommend the functional skills level 2 qualification. If you need to resit your science GCSE online, a GCSE equivalency exam is the best choice.
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💻Key Dates for GCSE Resits (Provisional)
You can resit maths GCSE and resit English GCSE exams in autumn of each year, usually around November.
You can retake all other GCSE exams, including maths and English, in summer of each year, usually in May or June.
| First November 2025 Resit First November 2025 Resit | Tuesday 4th November 2025 |
| Last November 2025 Resit Last November 2025 Resit | Monday 10th November 2025 |
| First Summer 2026 Exam First Summer 2026 Exam | Thursday 7th May 2026 |
| Last Summer 2026 Exam Last Summer 2026 Exam | Friday 19th June 2026 |
| GCSE Results Day 2026 GCSE Results Day 2026 | Thursday 20th August 2026 |
GCSE Resits FAQs
Who can take GCSE resits, and how many times can I retake the exams?
Anyone can resit GCSE exams, including maths and English, with no limit on the number of attempts. You can resit GCSE maths and English every November, and other GCSE subjects, including maths and English, can be retaken in the Summer exam series.
Can I take my GCSE resit exams online?
While GCSE resit courses can be studied online, the actual GCSE exams must be taken in person at a registered exam centre during official exam periods. However, alternative qualifications like functional skills level 2 or GCSE equivalency tests are available to sit fully online with more flexible scheduling.
What are the alternatives to GCSE resits?
Functional skills level 2 and GCSE equivalency tests offer recognised alternatives to GCSE resits. These qualifications focus on practical skills and can be completed online from home, providing greater flexibility and faster results, typically within 1-6 working days.
When are the key dates for GCSE resits?
GCSE maths and English resits usually take place every November, while other GCSE subjects can be retaken in the Summer exam series, typically from May to June. Results for Summer 2026 exams will be released in August 2026.
How do I book a GCSE resit as a private candidate?
Private candidates can book their GCSE resit exams through an approved GCSE exam centre. You’ll need to register in advance, usually by early February for summer exams or early September for November resits.
Do universities accept GCSE resits?
Yes, most universities accept GCSE resits, especially in essential subjects like maths and English. As long as you achieve the required grade, your application will not usually be affected by the number of attempts.