New GCSE Exam Bookings Now Open for Additional Subjects

GCSEs are most often taken by students in school at around 15 or 16 years old, but they are not limited to that age group. Learners of any age can take GCSE exams by registering as private candidates. This involves booking an exam through an approved exam centre that offers your chosen subject and exam board, then sitting the exam during the official exam series. Many learners choose to use an online provider to help simplify the process and reduce the amount of organisation involved. At Functional Skills Level 2, we recommend finding a service that supports you through your options and arranges your exam booking at a suitable centre near you. With bookings now open for a wider selection of GCSE subjects, there are more opportunities to choose qualifications that suit your plans.

Languages

A GCSE in a language is a valuable qualification that shows strong communication skills. Studying a language at GCSE level demonstrates that you can read, write, listen, and speak confidently in another language. These skills are useful in everyday life and highly valued by employers, particularly in roles that involve communication with different cultures or communities. Language GCSEs are transferable, meaning they can support applications across many industries rather than one specific career path. Learning a language also helps build cultural awareness and understanding. There are additional benefits too, as language learning can improve memory, creativity, and problem-solving skills.

The following Edexcel IGCSE language exams are currently available:

GCSE Arabic Exam
GCSE Chinese Exam
GCSE French Exam
GCSE Spanish Exam

Finance, Maths, and Science

GCSEs related to finance and business are a strong option for learners interested in accounting, economics, or commerce. These subjects help develop practical knowledge while building skills such as organisation, accuracy, and analytical thinking. These skills are useful across a wide range of roles, not just finance-related careers.

Maths and science GCSEs are also highly beneficial, particularly for learners considering STEM pathways. Further Maths GCSE is well suited to those who enjoy mathematical challenges and want to strengthen future study or university applications. Science GCSEs, especially those focused on human biology, provide important background knowledge for progression into healthcare, social care, and science-based fields.

The following GCSE exams are available in finance, maths, and science:

GCSE Accounting Exam
GCSE Commerce Exam
GCSE Economics Exam
GCSE Further Pure Mathematics Exam
GCSE Human Biology Exam

Culture and Life Skills

Digital skills are essential in most modern workplaces, making GCSE ICT a useful qualification. It demonstrates that you can use technology effectively for a range of tasks. Alongside technical ability, employers also value communication skills and an understanding of how culture and society influence working environments.

A GCSE in Global Citizenship shows awareness of social, political, and global issues, as well as the ability to think critically about them. It reflects engagement with the wider world and an interest in community and society. GCSE Islamic Studies allows learners to explore Islamic beliefs, practices, and history in depth, offering a strong foundation for further study and personal development.

The following GCSE exams focus on culture and technology:

GCSE Global Citizenship Exam
GCSE ICT Exam
GCSE Islamic Studies Exam

Booking GCSE Exams Outside of School

Booking GCSE exams as a private candidate is straightforward. Most Edexcel IGCSE exams can be taken during the summer exam series or the November resit series. GCSE Global Citizenship and GCSE Islamic Studies are only available in the summer. Exams are always taken at approved exam centres under standard exam conditions.

Conclusion

Although GCSE maths and English are often required for progression, they are not the only subjects worth considering. A wide range of GCSE qualifications can strengthen your CV and support future ambitions. With additional GCSE exam bookings now open, Pass GCSE offers flexible options for learners outside of school.

Written by

PassFunctionalSkills Team

We help thousands of students get their Functional Skills Qualifications.