The online exam is user-friendly and requires no special software. On the day of your exam, you will receive a Google Meets link via email 10-15 minutes before your scheduled start time. Just click the link to connect with the exam invigilator, who will guide you through the instructions and share the exam link. Questions will be displayed on screen, and you’ll write your answers on paper, scanning them in at the end of the exam. The process is straightforward, and the exam invigilator will be available to assist you.

You will need the following for the day of your exam:

1. An internet connection capable of sustaining a video call (please test before your exam day)
2. A web cam
3. Your ID
4. Pen, paper and a scientific calculator
5. Smartphone (to scan in your workings if you have done anything on paper).

The GCSE Maths Equivalency Test consists of:

1 hour Non-Calculator Paper – 50 marks 

1 hour Calculator Paper – 50 marks

These papers are sat back to back in one 2 hour exam.

This specification gives all the topics required for higher and foundation.

Yes, we offer both higher and foundation GCSE maths equivalency tests.

The foundation paper has a maximum grade of 5, and you will need to answer more questions correctly than on the higher paper. While some questions are shared between the two exams, the foundation paper places a greater emphasis on number and ratio, and the questions are generally easier. Students who feel less confident often choose to take the Maths GCSE foundation exam.

The higher paper awards grades from 3 to 9. It includes some questions found in the foundation paper but places a greater focus on algebra, geometry, and measurement, featuring more challenging questions. Higher papers are typically taken by more confident students aiming for top grades (7, 8, and 9).

You require a GCSE Maths equivalency for entry into a higher education courses that accept GCSE equivalencies (typically teacher training for QTS, midwifery and nursing).

Where can I sit the GCSE Maths equivalency Exam?

You can sit the exam online or in school (conditions apply).

Results are returned to you within 10 working days via email

NEED IT SOONER?

Then select the Fast track option shown above. This guarantees the results within 2 working days of sitting your exam.

The foundation course is shorter and has significantly higher pass rates. We recommend that all learners opt for foundation maths due to its higher pass rate, except for those seeking to teach in Wales, where a grade 6 in GCSE maths is required. In this particular case, you would need to take the higher tier exam.

A Star Equivalency Testing has been the leader in delivering Equivalency Tests since 2002 and our certificates are accepted by most training providers. However, as there are hundreds of existing providers, new providers and policies can be subject to change. We therefore advise candidates to always check with their proposed provider.

If there appears to be any issues with your training provider, please email [email protected] as we can assist.

To find out what you need to sit an online exam and for instructions on the day, please see the Equivalency test instructions page.

A Star Equivalency Test Instructions

These instructions will be sent to every learner when they book an exam with A star Equivalency.

UCL only accept level 5’s for all GCSE maths qualifications and equivalencies.

In order to get booked in for an extra time exam, you MUST call 020 8135 8868 or email [email protected] to discuss your requirements. It may take longer to get booked in for an exam as we verify your evidence of extra time.

Please be aware: Due to the extended nature of an extra time exam, it is not possible to sit these exams in every available exam slot due to invigilator availability.

Book now choose date later exams expire after 1 year after purchase.