What GCSEs Do You Need To Be a Barrister?
GCSE Requirements
Law Routes
Book GCSE Exam
Contact Us
What GCSEs do you need to be a barrister?
To meet the entry requirements for law, you usually need at least a Level 2 in both English language and maths. This can be achieved through GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, or through Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English, which are accepted by many universities. It is also likely that law degrees will ask for additional subjects so that you have in 5 GCSEs in total. You may be wondering what GCSEs do you need to be a barrister, but requirements can vary between institutions, so it’s important to check the criteria for your chosen university or training route.
If you’re unsure whether your current qualifications meet law degree entry requirements, simply fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page. Our friendly team can talk you through your options and advise whether Functional Skills or GCSEs are the most suitable route for you to become a barrister.
Can I become a barrister without GCSEs?
If you are looking to get into law without GCSEs in maths and English language, there are alternative options available. Law degrees usually require 5 GCSEs in maths, English and at least 3 other subjects. Instead of full GCSEs, you can take alternatives such as Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English, which are widely accepted as equivalent to a GCSE at grade 4/C. For the rest of your subjects, however, you will need to complete full GCSEs. Essay-based subjects such as History can be useful because they help develop analysis and written argument which are both skills you will use in your career as a barrister.
| Feature | GCSE | Functional Skills |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted UK Wide Accepted UK Wide | ||
| Ofqual Regulated Ofqual Regulated | ||
| Suitable for Law Suitable for Law | ||
| 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 barrister?
GCSEs are required for most law degree courses because they show that you have the essential literacy and numeracy skills needed for the role. Maths and English are particularly important, as barristers must be able to communicate clearly, understand written information, and work confidently with numbers in context.
Although requirements can vary, most universities ask for at least a grade 4/C or equivalent in maths, English, and 3 more subjects. These subjects help demonstrate your understanding of scientific concepts and your ability to apply them in healthcare environments.
Alongside GCSE Maths courses, GCSE English courses and GCSE History courses, you may also study other GCSE courses you enjoy. Essay-based subjects can be especially useful, as they help build writing and analytical skills that are valuable when completing written assignments during a law degree.
What law routes can I take with GCSEs?
If you achieve GCSEs in maths, English and 3 more subjects, there are several routes into being a barrister. You will most likely progress through A levels before moving on to a law degree. A levels or equivalent Level 3 qualifications are used as the main requirement for entry into university.
Some of the legal careers that people with these GCSEs often go on to include:
How do I book my GCSE exams?
Book your Ofqual-regulated GCSE exams for becoming a barrister with the team at Pass GCSE. You can book online through their exam booking pages or complete the contact form at the bottom of the page. The expert team will support you through the process and finalise your booking during a call.
You can select your preferred exam date, exam board and tier. Maths and English GCSE exams are available in May or November, with some other GCSE exams also available in summer and November. Pass GCSE’s prices include the full service which covers exam entry, finding a local exam centre and issuing your certificate.
If you are looking to book Functional Skills exams instead of GCSEs for maths and English language, these are available through Pass Functional Skills. You can book directly online using the links below:
Speak to Our Experts
☎️Call us on
020 4574 9155
GCSE Law Support
💻Call us on
020 4574 9155
GCSEs to be a Barrister Summary
Do I need GCSEs to become a barrister?
Most law degree-level courses require Level 2 English and maths, as well as 3 more GCSEs. This can be achieved through GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, or through Functional Skills Level 2, which are accepted by many universities UK-wide.
Are Functional Skills accepted for becoming a barrister?
Many universities, colleges and apprenticeship routes accept Functional Skills Level 2 in English and maths as an alternative to GCSEs, especially for adult learners. Acceptance can vary, so it is important to check individual course requirements.
Do I need A Levels to be a barrister?
Yes, most law degrees will look at your A level (or equivalent) qualifications to help them decide on your application. You can take your A Level resits as a private candidate if you do not yet have the grades you need to progress.
What grade do I need in maths and English to be a barrister?
If you are taking GCSEs to become a barrister, most courses 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 barrister?
If you are wondering what GCSEs do you need to be a barrister, our team can help. We will advise you whether Functional Skills or GCSEs are the best option for your chosen route into being a barrister and guide you through exams, 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.
-
Call 020 4574 9155
-
Or fill in the contact form