Build the maths & English employers ask for
Free Functional Skills, GCSE, ESOL and digital skills practice — exam-style questions, timed mocks and a clear explanation for every answer. Functional Skills Level 2 is widely accepted as equivalent to a GCSE grade 4.
The Functional Skills ladder
Functional Skills runs from Entry Level up to Level 2. Many employers and level 3+ apprenticeships ask for Level 2, which is widely accepted as equivalent to a GCSE grade 4.
Not sure where you are? Take the free 2-minute level check →
Functional Skills, GCSE & more
Entry Level (Entry 1–3)
Build core confidence with numbers, reading and writing before Level 1.
Level 1
Everyday maths and English at the same level as GCSE grades 3–1, and the step before Level 2.
Level 2
The level most employers, colleges and level 3+ apprenticeships ask for: at the same level as GCSE grades 9–4.
GCSE
Sitting (or resitting) GCSE maths, English or science, or taking an equivalency test for teacher training or nursing entry.
GCSE Maths Foundation
Start practising →GCSE Maths Higher
Start practising →GCSE English Language
Start practising →GCSE Combined Science
Start practising →GCSE Equivalency Tests
Start practising →ESOL
English for speakers of other languages: everyday reading, writing, speaking and listening.
Digital skills
Functional Skills Digital runs at Entry Level 3 and Level 1 only. The second course is free practice beyond Level 1; it is not a Functional Skills qualification.
Key Stage 3 and A-level practice (7 courses) now has its own page: School & A-level →
What to expect on the day
Mostly on-screen
Maths and English are usually taken on a computer at a registered centre or college, often on demand rather than only in the summer.
One national standard
Awarded by Pearson Edexcel, City & Guilds, NCFE, Open Awards and others — all to the same reformed (2019) standards.
Applied, not abstract
You apply maths and English to real situations — budgeting, measurements, work emails, instructions — so our practice mirrors that style.
Where Functional Skills takes you
- Apprenticeships — apprentices aged 16–18 must achieve English and maths (funded up to Level 2) to complete. Since February 2025, employers decide whether apprentices aged 19+ need them.
- A faster GCSE alternative — sit on demand and get a Level 2 without waiting for summer exams.
- Access to Higher Education & university — many colleges and Access to HE courses accept Functional Skills Level 2; universities vary, so check each course's entry requirements.
- Careers — nursing, teaching assistants, the uniformed services and many employers ask for Level 2.
Functional Skills: your questions answered
Is Functional Skills the same as a GCSE?
Not identical, but Functional Skills Level 2 in maths or English is at the same level as GCSE grades 9–4 and is widely accepted in place of a GCSE grade 4 (a "C") by employers, colleges and apprenticeships. Universities vary, so check each course's entry requirements. It is applied and practical rather than theory-heavy, and you can often sit it on demand through the year rather than waiting for the summer.
Which level do I need?
It depends on what it is for. The Department for Education lists Level 1 as the accepted maths and English qualification for level 2 apprenticeships and Level 2 for level 3 and higher apprenticeships, and many employers ask for Level 2. Level 1 is a stepping stone towards it, and Entry Levels 1–3 build the foundations first. If you are unsure, start at Level 1 — if it feels comfortable, move up to Level 2.
Do apprentices still have to pass maths and English?
Apprentices aged 16–18 must achieve English and maths (funded up to Level 2) to complete their apprenticeship. Since February 2025, employers decide whether apprentices aged 19 or over when they start need a Level 2 English and maths qualification to pass. Check with your employer or training provider.
Who runs the Functional Skills exams?
Functional Skills qualifications are awarded by bodies such as Pearson Edexcel, City & Guilds, NCFE and Open Awards, all to the same national standards (reformed in 2019). Maths and English are usually taken on a computer, often on demand, through a registered centre or college.
Is PassNova practice really free?
Yes — all Functional Skills, GCSE, ESOL and digital skills practice on PassNova is completely free, with no sign-up needed to start. A free account is optional and just saves your progress.
Can adults take Functional Skills?
Absolutely — Functional Skills is hugely popular with adult learners returning to study, often funded for free in England for those without a Level 2. It is a flexible route to the maths and English many careers, apprenticeships and courses require.