Functional Skills Level 2 Maths and English

What's involved in Functional Skills English Level 2?

To complete your functional skills qualification in English you must pass the following exams:

Reading: This exam is usually 1 hour long and requires you to read a number of different styles of texts and then answer short questions on them, showing that you can analyse texts, comprehend the intended meaning, and identify language features used.

Writing: This exam is usually 1 hour long and requires you to demonstrate your writing abilities in a context that is given in the paper. This may involve writing a piece of persuasive text, a complaint letter, or some other type of writing.

Speaking listening and communication: This exam lasts around 1 hour and involves preparing a short presentation to share with other learners. You will present for a few minutes, listen to other presentations, then have a discussion. You are not marked on the quality of the content of your presentation, simply on your ability to communicate the content, and then how you respond and interact with other learners.

See Ofqual’s English Functional Skills specification for more details.

Functional Skills Maths Level 2

The level 2 maths exam is 2 hours long and is made up of a non-calculator and calculator section, with the calculator section being worth more marks. You can view the full list of functional skills maths level 2 topics here. These topics are grouped together in three key areas covered in the functional skills maths level 2 online exam. These are:

Using numbers: This section covers the basics of whole numbers, decimals, negative numbers, fractions, and percentages, as well as learning how to convert between them and perform calculations involving them.

Understanding measure, shape, and space: This section covers a larger ranger of topics, from simple 2D and 3D shapes, along with surface area, to using maps and interpreting scale drawings. This section will challenge your problem-solving ability, with these topics wrapped up in everyday scenarios for you to solve.

Handling data:  This section covers the display and interpretation of data in many different formats. The fundamentals of the mean, mode, median, and range will be tested extensively as well as some basic probability graphs.

See more about the Maths Functional Skills subject content here.

What is level 2 maths and English?

Level 2 maths and English, often called functional skills maths and English level 2, are GCSE equivalent qualifications taken by people who need to get into university, apply for a job, or complete an apprenticeship.

At Pass Functional Skills, we offer both functional skills exam and functional skills courses, to make sure you are prepared for your exam.

What are functional skills?

Functional skills are a series of qualifications in maths, English and digital skills. Each of these subjects have 5 levels which are as follows:

• Entry level 1
• Entry level 2
• Entry level 3
• Functional skills level 1
• Functional skills level 2

Find out more about what functional skills are here.

What are level 2 functional skills equivalent to?

Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths and English are equivalent to grade C or level 4 at GCSE level. Functional skills level 2 qualifications are accepted by employers and universities as GCSE equivalents.

You can read more about functional skills level 2 equivalents here.

You can read more about GCSE equivalents here.

What is the functional skills level 2 pass mark?

The functional skills level 2 pass mark varies from exam to exam, as well as from exam board to exam board. Generally the pass mark for the level 2 Maths exam is around 55%, and English reading and writing is similar. For the speaking and listening component of English, it is more about demonstrating the key skills rather than achieving a certain percentage. The level 2 exams are a simple pass or fail, so you don’t have to achieve really high marks to achieve the qualification.

Is functional skills easier than GCSE?

Rather than being easier, functional skills are seen as more accessible than the GCSE because the questions are more applicable to real-life situations. Other advantages are that there is less content to cover and you can sit your exams all year round with fast track results.

Do universities accept level 2 functional skills?

Yes, the majority of universities accept the level 2 qualification in English and maths as a GCSE equivalent. This enables you to gain entry to courses such as nursing, midwifery and many more; functional skills is the way to go if you need a level 2 GCSE maths or English equivalent.

How long does it take to get exam results?

Results take 2-6 working days with TQUK remote invigilation, or 6-16 working days with Open Awards, and can take longer during exam board standardisation periods.

What is included in level 2 maths and English?

In level 2 maths, you cover core topics such as fractions, decimals and percentages, with very little algebra. In English, you cover reading, writing and speaking in 3 separate exams. Things you will be tested on include spelling, punctuation, grammar, and comprehension.

How long will it take to receive my functional skills maths level 2 certificate?

You will receive your functional skills maths level 2 certificate within 2 working days of your pass result. Your functional skills maths level 2 certificate will arrive as an e-certificate.

When can I expect my English certificate?

You only receive your level 2 functional skills certificate once you have passed all 3 components. You will be sent your e-certificate within 2 working days of your third pass result.

Is level 2 maths and English for adults?

Yes, level 2 maths and English are suitable for any age. They have less content than a traditional GCSE which makes them perfect for those with a busy schedule.

Can I take my exam for level 2 functional skills maths and English online?

Yes, all of our exams can sat at home with online invigilation. All you will need is a laptop, a good internet connection and a quiet room. If you have any concerns about the set-up of your exams, contact our friendly support team who can help you get prepared.

Are there GCSE functional skills in 2026/27?

There are no GCSE Functional Skills. Functional Skills are a standalone qualification. Functional Skills are, however, equivalent to GCSE qualifications at grade 4/C (a pass).