What GCSEs Do You Need To Be a Lawyer?
GCSE Requirements
Law Routes
Book GCSE Exam
Contact Us
What GCSEs do you need to be a lawyer?
If you are looking to take a law degree, you will be asking what GCSEs do you need to be a lawyer. You will likely need at least 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) at grade 9-4 (A*-C), ideally including English language and maths. However, some universities may require higher grades with some in subjects such as GCSE History or a language. It’s important to check the specific requirements of your chosen university, as law GCSE requirements can vary between institutions and programs. Lots of courses accept Functional Skills Level 2 in maths and English as a GCSE alternative.
If you’re unsure whether your current qualifications meet law course entry requirements, simply fill out the contact form at the bottom of the page. Our friendly team at PFS can talk you through your options and advise whether Functional Skills or GCSEs are the most suitable route for your circumstances.
Can I become a lawyer without GCSEs?
If you are wondering how to get into law without GCSEs, then you can consider alternatives like Functional Skills. The GCSEs needed for law include GCSE maths, GCSE English Language, and usually subjects that provide strong essay skills, such as GCSE History or GCSE Economics. For maths and English only, you can use a Functional Skills qualification at level 2 as a widely-accepted equivalent to GCSEs.
| 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 lawyer?
A levels are the main entry requirement for studying law at university level. University admissions teams use your GCSEs to check that you have strong core skills, especially in English and maths. Most law courses will expect at least a grade 4/C in English Language and maths; in lots of cases you can use your maths and English functional skills in place of a GCSE.
Alongside GCSE Maths course and GCSE English courses, you may also study other GCSE courses you enjoy. Essay-based subjects such as GCSE History can be especially useful, as they help build writing and analytical skills that are valuable when completing written assignments during your degree.
What law routes can I take with GCSEs?
If you achieve your GCSEs in Maths and English, there are several routes you can take towards a career in law. Many learners progress onto A levels, BTECs or T Levels before applying for a law degree at university. These qualifications help build the academic, analytical and writing skills needed for legal study.
Some law-related careers that you can progress onto include:
How do I book my GCSE exams?
If you know what GCSEs do you need to be a lawyer, you can book your Ofqual-regulated GCSE exam for law with the Pass GCSE team. Choose your preferred exam date, exam board, and tier; for maths and English GCSEs, exams are available in May or November. Prices include the full service, covering exam entry, finding a GCSE exam centre for private candidates, and issuing your certificate.
You can book online through their exam booking pages or complete the contact form at the bottom of the page, and our team will support you through the process and finalise your booking during a call.
If you are looking to book Functional Skills exams as an equivalent to GCSEs, these are available through Pass Functional Skills. 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 Lawyer Summary
Do I need GCSEs to become a lawyer?
Most law courses require Level 2 English and maths. You can achieve this 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 law?
Many universities and colleges accept Functional Skills Level 2 in English and maths as an alternative to these subjects as GCSEs, especially for adult learners. You can also take your adult GCSE exams at any stage of life; acceptance can vary, so it is important to check individual course requirements.
Can I become a lawyer through an apprenticeship?
Once you know what GCSEs do you need to be a lawyer and you have completed your A levels, you might qualify for a solicitor apprenticeship. This way you can avoid student debt and earn while you train.
What grade do I need in maths and English for law?
If you are taking GCSEs, most courses ask for a minimum grade 4/C in maths and English. Functional Skills Level 2 are equivalent qualifications, which are often accepted by universities as alternatives to applicants having GCSEs.
Can Pass help me choose the right route into being a lawyer?
Yes, our team can help you understand whether Functional Skills or GCSE resits are the best option for your chosen route into law. We will 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