GCSE Maths vs A-level Maths: which exam is right for you?
GCSE Maths is broad: number, algebra, geometry, ratio, probability and statistics over three papers. A-level Maths builds on the algebra and trigonometry from GCSE Higher tier and adds calculus, proof, exponentials, statistics with hypothesis testing and mechanics, assessed in three 2-hour papers at the end of Year 13. Most sixth forms ask for a grade 6 or 7 in GCSE Maths before you start A-level.
GCSE Maths vs A-level Maths at a glance
| GCSE Maths | A-level Maths | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | GCSE Maths (9-1) Exam | A-level Mathematics Exam |
| Questions | AQA and Edexcel: 3 written papers, 80 marks each (240 marks in total). OCR: 3 papers of 100 marks each | 3 written papers, 100 marks each (300 marks in total) |
| Time | 4 hours 30 minutes in total (3 × 1 hour 30 minutes) | 6 hours in total (3 × 2 hours) |
| Grades and pass mark | Grade 4 is a standard pass and grade 5 a strong pass. Boundaries are set after every exam series, so aim for 70% in practice | Graded A* to E; grade E is a pass. Boundaries are set after every exam series, so aim for 70% in practice |
| Format | Written exam, Foundation tier (grades 1 to 5) or Higher tier (grades 4 to 9). AQA and Edexcel: paper 1 non-calculator, papers 2 and 3 calculator. OCR: the middle paper of each tier is non-calculator. A formulae sheet is provided | Written exam, calculator allowed on all three papers. A formula booklet is provided. About two thirds pure maths and one third statistics and mechanics |
| Cost | No fee for school and college students (the school pays). Private candidates pay the exam centre; fees vary by centre | No fee for school and college students (the school pays). Private candidates pay the exam centre; fees vary by centre |
| Languages | English | English |
| Where | At your school or college, or as a private candidate at an exam centre that accepts them | At your school or sixth form college, or as a private candidate at an exam centre that accepts them |
| Level | GCSE | A-level |
What each exam covers
GCSE Maths
- Number
- Algebra
- Ratio, Proportion and Rates of Change
- Geometry and Measures
- Probability
- Statistics
A-level Maths
- Proof, Algebra and Functions
- Coordinate Geometry, Sequences, Series and Vectors
- Trigonometry
- Exponentials and Logarithms
- Differentiation
- Integration and Numerical Methods
- Statistics
- Mechanics
Which should you take?
GCSE Maths is broad: number, algebra, geometry, ratio, probability and statistics over three papers. A-level Maths builds on the algebra and trigonometry from GCSE Higher tier and adds calculus, proof, exponentials, statistics with hypothesis testing and mechanics, assessed in three 2-hour papers at the end of Year 13. Most sixth forms ask for a grade 6 or 7 in GCSE Maths before you start A-level.
Try both, free
Each free practice test takes about 10 minutes and shows your score by topic. No signup.
FAQ
What is the difference between GCSE Maths and A-level Maths?
GCSE Maths is broad: number, algebra, geometry, ratio, probability and statistics over three papers. A-level Maths builds on the algebra and trigonometry from GCSE Higher tier and adds calculus, proof, exponentials, statistics with hypothesis testing and mechanics, assessed in three 2-hour papers at the end of Year 13. Most sixth forms ask for a grade 6 or 7 in GCSE Maths before you start A-level.
Which is harder, GCSE Maths or A-level Maths?
GCSE Maths: aqa and edexcel: 3 written papers, 80 marks each (240 marks in total). ocr: 3 papers of 100 marks each in 4 hours 30 minutes in total (3 × 1 hour 30 minutes). A-level Maths: 3 written papers, 100 marks each (300 marks in total) in 6 hours in total (3 × 2 hours). The longer exam covers more ground, but the harder one is the one further from your daily work. Take both free practice tests to see where you stand.
Can I hold both GCSE Maths and A-level Maths?
Yes. Most students take several subjects in the same exam series, and the timetable is built so the papers don't clash. Our plans are per subject, so add the subjects you need.
How do I prepare for GCSE Maths and A-level Maths?
Start with the free practice test for each, then study by topic. Premium is per exam (£29 a month each), so most people start with the exam they'll sit first and add the second when they're ready.
More comparisons
Exam details are summarized from the exam boards' published information as of November 2026. Confirm with the exam boards before you book. Kennington College is not affiliated with any exam board or with Ofqual.