Our GCSE Maths Higher and Foundation Tier guide aims to help you get a better understanding of the pros and cons of the both tiers and how your choice can affect your prospects. If you are studying at school the chances are you will have been placed in a certain tier based on your teacher’s recommendation. If you are studying as an adult learner or doing resits the chances are you will be able to select the tier yourself.
What is the difference between Foundation and Higher Tiers?
The current GCSE maths course – regardless of exam board – is divided into two tiers: Foundation Tier and Higher Tier. Foundation Tier is the easier of the two as it omits some topics and places more emphasis on working with numbers. Higher Tier covers the same content as Foundation but adds extra topics such as circle theorems and is weighted more towards algebra and more complex number handling.
How to choose between Foundation and Higher Tiers
First of all, your tier will set out your potential exam grade. If you are taking the Foundation Tier your highest grade will be a 5 (classed as a ‘good pass’) which is what you’ll need for most further education and to open your career path. If you are doing Higher then your grade can go all the way up to 9 (what was previously an A*). Find out more about the breakdown of the current grading system versus the letter system here.
If you’re a student who is in the grey area of performing well but not excelling regularly you may be offered the opportunity to choose your tier.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Higher Tier GCSE Maths
Advantages and Disadvantages of Foundation Tier GCSE Maths
Further reading: Article from Ofqual
