What GCSEs Do You Need To Join The Army?

To enlist in the Army as a soldier, no qualifications are required. However, to join as an officer or transition from soldier to officer, you will need to have GCSE passes or equivalent in 5 subjects, including English Language and Mathematics at Grade C/4 (or higher) or a recognised equivalent. At Pass My GCSE, we can assist you in achieving the necessary GCSEs or equivalent qualifications to launch your career in the Army.
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What GCSEs do you need to be join the Army?

You do not need any qualifications to join the Army as a soldier. To join as an officer, you need at least 5 GCSEs or equivalent qualifications. The Army recognise Functional Skills Level 2 as alternative qualifications to GCSEs. Your qualifications must include Mathematics and English and either Science or a foreign language.

If you’re concerned about not meeting the GCSE criteria to join the Army, please complete the contact form at the bottom of the page, and our helpful team will offer advice and guidance on your options.

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Can I join the Army without GCSEs?

If you’re considering how to pursue a career in with the Army without GCSEs, you can apply as a solder or to a soldier apprenticeship (95% of soldiers choose to apply for an apprenticeship). To join as an Officer without GCSE, the Army accepts Functional Skills qualifications as alternatives to GCSE grade 4’s. For instance, a functional skills level 2 qualification in Mathematics and English is equivalent to a GCSE grade 4/C.

Feature GCSE Functional Skills
Accepted UK Wide Accepted UK Wide
Ofqual Regulated Ofqual Regulated
Suitable For Applying to the Army Suitable For Applying to the Army
Can Sit in May or November Can Sit in May or November
Can Sit All Year Round Can Sit All Year Round
Can Take Exam From Home Can Take Exam From Home
Results in 10 Working Days Results in 10 Working Days

Why do you need GCSEs to join the Army?

GCSEs are typically crucial for most routes into the Army, particularly in Mathematics and English, as these nationally recognised qualifications demonstrate the essential numeracy and literacy skills needed for the role. In addition to Mathematics and English, you’ll need to have a GCSE-level qualification in either Science or a foreign language.  You also have the option to select other GCSE subjects that interest you, so that you have at least 5 GCSEs or equivalent qualifications at grades 4 or above.

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What Army routes can I take with GCSEs?

The Army offers a range of roles, from those that require no GCSEs or other qualifications to join, to specialist positions that demand professional qualifications. For anyone without formal qualifications, you can apply for the role of soldier. You can also enrol on an Army apprenticeship (which 95% of soldiers do), where you can gain recognised qualifications while on the job and getting paid.

With GCSE passes in Maths, English, and three other subjects (including either a foreign language or Science), you can pursue an Officer role. As an Officer, you have the chance to obtain a fully funded degree.

There are many roles within the Army you can pursue with GCSE qualifications. Some of the roles that soldiers and officers pursue include:

How do I book my GCSE exams?

Easily book your GCSE exam through Pass My GCSE’s online booking system, or fill out the contact form below, and we’ll guide you through the process, confirming your booking over the phone.

You can choose your preferred exam date, exam board, and tier. For Maths and English GCSEs, exams are held in May and November, while other subjects take place during May/June each year. Our fees include everything, from exam booking and securing a local exam centre to issuing your certificate.

Prepare with confidence using our all-inclusive online courses, featuring revision tutorials, practice questions, mock exams, and progress tracking—ensuring you’re fully prepared to succeed.

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GCSEs to join the Army Summary

What are GCSEs?

GCSEs are qualifications in specific subjects in the UK, typically taken by students aged 14-16. However, many adults resit their GCSEs to pursue careers such as joining the Army.

What GCSEs are needed to join the Army?

To join the Army as an officer, you will usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grade 4/C or above, including Maths and English. It’s important to check specific requirements with your chosen programme or course provider.

 

Can I join the Army without GCSEs?

Yes, you can obtain an equivalent qualification, such as a functional skills level 2 qualification in Maths and English, which is accepted in place of GCSEs.

Why should I take GCSEs to join the Army?

Passing GCSEs in Maths and English demonstrates that you have the essential numeracy and literacy skills required for many roles, especially if you’re looking to join as an officer.

What are the routes into the Army with GCSEs?

After completing your GCSEs, you can apply to become an Officer rather than a Soldier. As an officer, you can then take a fully funded degree. Alternatively, you could enter through an Army apprenticeship. Apprenticeship roles include Engineering, Telecommunications & IT, Logistics, Construction, and even Business administration.

How do I book my GCSE exam?

You can book online through Pass My GCSE’s exam booking pages, or fill out the contact form below. One of our specialists will contact you to guide you through the process and confirm your booking.

Why Choose Pass My GCSE?

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Friendly Support

We provide full support to help you prepare for your GCSE exams. Our team will assist you in choosing the best options and manage all the details leading up to your exams.

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Subject Coverage

In addition to maths and English, we offer GCSE exams in science, history, sociology, and many other subjects.

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Accepted Everywhere

The GCSEs you complete with Pass My GCSE are accepted by all major employers, universities, and apprenticeship providers.

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Lowest Cost Exam

We offer the lowest prices available online for our services. You won’t find a better deal for the quality of service we provide!

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No Hidden Fees

Our fees are straightforward and cover all exam centre and exam board costs, with no hidden charges.

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Unbeatable Service

For those seeking GCSE qualifications to pursue a career in the Army, we guarantee you won’t find better service anywhere online.

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Get in touch with one of our friendly team and they will discuss your options and help you to determine what qualifications and subjects are right for you.

  • Call 020 3633 2975
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