GCSE Results Day 2025: What Students and Parents Need to Know
Thursday, August 21, 2025, marks GCSE results day, a significant moment for students as they prepare for the next stage of their education. For some, it’s a day of celebration, while others may face difficult decisions if they don’t achieve their desired grades. Here’s a comprehensive guide for students and parents navigating this important day.
Collecting Your Results
Pupils will generally be able to collect their results from around 8:00 AM on Thursday, August 21, 2025, though specific times may vary depending on the school. This year, a pilot scheme in Manchester and the West Midlands will see some students receiving their results via the Education Record app from 11:00 AM.
If students are unable to collect their results in person, arrangements can usually be made to have them sent via email or post. Alternatively, a nominated individual can collect the results on their behalf, provided they present a signed letter from the student and their own identification.
Parental Guidance
Bernadette John, director of the Good Schools Guide, advises parents to accompany their child to school to collect their results. “Quite often, children might want to go on their own or with friends. But I would say go with them – and if anything has gone awry, get in and sort it out straight away,” she suggests.
Understanding the Grading System
The numerical grading system, introduced in 2017, continues this year, with students receiving grades from 1 to 9 in each subject. The grades correlate to the previous letter system as follows:
- Grade 9 is above an A*
- Grade 8 is between an A and A*
- Grade 7 is an A
- Grade 6 is above a B
- Grade 5 is between B and C
- Grade 4 is a C
- Grade 3 is between a D and E
- Grade 2 is between E and F
- Grade 1 is a G
Numerical grades were first used in 2017 for English Literature, English Language, and Maths, with other subjects transitioning over subsequent years. By 2020, all subjects were using the numerical system.
The grading system was designed by former education secretary Michael Gove, with the aim of “help refix the level at which people could recognise outstanding behaviour.” It was part of broader reforms that included tougher syllabuses and reduced coursework.
Appealing Your Results
If there are concerns about a grade, students should first ask their school or college to check for administrative errors. The deadline to request a review of marking is September 26, 2025.
If the school’s internal check doesn’t resolve the issue, teachers can submit an appeal to the exam board. Appeals can be based on procedural errors, administrative mistakes, or unreasonable academic judgment.
Further recourse is available through the examinations procedures review service (EPRS), provided by the exam board regulator, Ofqual, if students remain dissatisfied with the appeal outcome.
Resit Opportunities
Students who are unhappy with their results will have the opportunity to re-sit their exams in the autumn.
Next Steps: Sixth Form and Beyond
Most sixth forms and colleges require at least a grade 4 (formerly a C) in Maths and English to proceed to A-levels. Autumn resits offer a chance to meet these requirements. For other exams, resits will take place during the usual summer exam period.
If a student misses the grades required for their chosen sixth form, contacting the institution immediately is crucial. They may still be accepted, particularly if the student is willing to re-sit exams. Alternative subjects may also be offered. If a place isn’t available, exploring other institutions with lower entry requirements is advisable.
