GCSE grades: The 9-1 boundaries explained

With the introduction of the new GCSE grading system, there is often confusion surrounding the boundaries for the 9-1 scale. The new system replaced the traditional A*-G grades, with grade 4 being equivalent to a C grade and grade 7 being equivalent to an A grade. But how are these boundaries determined?

The boundaries for the 9-1 scale are set by exam boards, taking into account the difficulty of the exam paper and the performance of students. This means that the boundaries can vary from year to year, depending on the overall performance of students taking the exam.

Students aiming for a grade 4 or above should aim to achieve at least 50% in their exam, while those aiming for a grade 7 or above should aim for at least 70%. However, it is important to note that these percentages are not set in stone and can fluctuate depending on the specific exam.

It is also worth noting that the boundaries for grade 9, the highest grade in the new system, are set much higher than the boundaries for the previous A* grade. This means that achieving a grade 9 is a significant achievement and only a small percentage of students will achieve this grade.

In conclusion, while the new 9-1 grading system may seem confusing at first, understanding the boundaries can help students set realistic goals and work towards achieving their desired grades. By being aware of the boundaries and working hard to meet or exceed them, students can maximize their chances of success in their GCSE exams.