Find the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about Functional Skills.
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Contents
What are Functional Skills?
For an introduction to Functional Skills qualifications, see About Functional Skills.
What format do Functional Skills assessments take?
You’ll find an explanation of how Functional Skills are assessed on the About Functional Skills page.
How many times can learners resit their assessments?
Learners can resit the tests as many times as required. You’ll have to make a new entry each time for Level 1 and 2.
At Entry Level there are three sets of assessments per level for each subject. If a learner does not pass their assessment, they may sit the alternative test, providing there is a gap of at least 14 days.
How long do we have to wait for results?
Results for external Functional Skills assessments take a maximum of 20 working days. On average, 95% of our assessments are marked in under 10 working days.
How do I make registrations for Functional Skills?
You can find general information on making vocational registrations here.
You’ll find more specific details in the Functional Skills section of the Information Manual.
When can I make test entries?
Test entries only apply to Levels 1 and 2 – you don’t need to make test entries at Entry Level.
You can make entries for the paper-based sessions without late fees up to 3 weeks before the test date. You can make entries for the onscreen tests and ICT on-demand tests up to 2 hours before you wish to sit the test, provided learners’ details are already registered.
How do I access live assessments for Entry Level Functional Skills?
You can access the live assessments once you’ve registered learners. You’ll find them in the secure section of the Edexcel website. To access these assessments you’ll need your Edexcel Online username and password.
What are the fees for Functional Skills?
You can find details of Functional Skills fees on our fees page.
All resits require marking, and are therefore chargeable at Level 1 and 2. Entry Level resits are free, as a registration is only closed after claiming a certificate.
How do I apply for special consideration for learners?
For details of how to apply for special consideration, see the special consideration page.
Are there any age limits on learners taking the tests?
There are no set age limits for taking Functional Skills tests, but do consider learners’ maturity and their readiness for assessment when entering them for these tests. Formative assessments by your centre should inform your decision on the level it would be appropriate to enter learners for.
What are the pass marks for Functional Skills?
They will not be the same for every paper. The papers are awarded (that is, the pass marks are set) by senior examiners for every series. This awarding process takes into account the Functional Skills standards and learner performance on that particular paper.
Are there any qualifications that act as a proxy for Functional Skills?
There are no proxies for Functional Skills. However, for Apprenticeship learners there are alternative qualifications. Please see the Specification for Apprenticeship Standards in England (SASE) on the Apprenticeships website.
What is the appeal process for centres and learners?
Where centres and/or students are dissatisfied with a decision relating to the awarding ofaresult there is an opportunity to appeal. This guidance provides information on how to appeal a decision.
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How long are registrations live for entry level?
Five years.
Are you able to register learners on a framework for apprenticeships rather than doing it separately?
Functional Skills are not part of our bundled frameworks.
If a student is incorrectly registered on level 1 and they should be on level 2 would the centre be charged two registrations fees or can they be moved over to level 2?
Pearson does not charge for registration for Levels 1 and 2, so this will not be an issue.
If we register as Entry Level 1 and pass, do we have to claim or could we let them sit Entry Level 2 and then claim this instead if they pass?
The learners are registered on specific levels, so you will need to claim and then re-register.
Can you split the English entry level over 2 sessions?
Yes, you can, if a learner needs it to be split.
Can a support assistant invigilate the assessments at Level 1 and 2?
Yes, they can.
For Entry Level, we print a fresh copy of the marks schemes and guidance notes every time. Then destroy it. This is time consuming and costly and potentially more of a security risk. Can we just keep one master copy of the mark schemes and guidance notes, held securely in our exam store when not in use?
The reason why we ask centres to print the live assessments (including mark schemes) each time that a cohort of learner sit the tests is because Pearson need to ensure that should we make any changes on the live assessments during the academic year (and this has happened in the past), centres use the most updated version of the materials. Although we communicate with centres when changes are done on the materials, there is a risk that communication does not reach the right member of the staff at your centre. If this is the case, potentially you would be using an outdated mark scheme and disadvantaging your candidates.
If you book a test for say 10 pupils to sit at the main site to do an on-demand paper and it is then decided that 1 pupil will need to sit at one of your other buildings, do you have to complete an alternative site form or re-book?
No, we have rules in place within our ICE document which should cover this scenario for the movement of test papers between sites or buildings within a centre.
With the paper-based assessments, if a candidate is taking it on a different day to the main cohort, do they need to be in isolation (so the others don't tell them what's on the paper)?
No, they do not. We have a number of live papers in use at any one time, so there is no guarantee that they will be sitting the same paper as their peers.
If a learner arrives late to a paper based exam how do we manage this in terms of timing with part a and b?
Late arrivals' is not applicable for on-demand assessments. Tests are booked for a specific date and can be taken at any time on that date. You must be clear on when a learner starts and finishes each section and you need to manage that process in the most effective way within your centre. This may mean only allowing the learner to take the test after all other learners have finished or, if you are able to manage it effectively, allowing the learner to start as soon as they arrive. In either situation, you must be able to manage the distribution process of each section, as well as the calculator when required, ensure the learners are given the correct amount of time for each section and they do not have access to a calculator for the non-calculator section.
Is there no scribe, spell check etc on the writing paper across all awarding bodies?
Yes, this is the same for all Awarding Organisations.
Can Claro read be used on Reading paper exams?
Yes, it can.
Can learners have a thesaurus for both reading and writing assessments?
Learners can only use a thesaurus, if they require one, on the reading papers
How will the extra time be split between part A and B of the maths assessments?
The extra time will be split equally, i.e. a learner will get their additional percentage time on both sections.
With the Standards Verifier how may scripts are required for a sample at entry level?
It is a minimum of 5 scripts per subject / per level / per component.
Does the background on onscreen tests have various colours/font size options?
Yes it does.
Is it possible to have two lead IVs, one for each subject, English and Maths?
Yes, it is.
Do the English Reading and Writing assessments have to be held in one session, or even on the same day?
No, they don't.
We work with psychiatric patients. Could we split levels 1 and 2 if this is better for their calmness and mental concentration?
Supervised rest breaks are allowed. Please refer to the JCQ guidelines.
If a student fails each set available do we revert back to set 1 or do we request a separate set from Pearson?
They would revert to set 1.
Do the Entry Level assessments change throughout the year or are those available in September available for the whole year?
Those available in September are live throughout the year.
After 5 days can we give teachers the papers for paper-based?
No, these papers will remain live.
Does the onscreen test have an onscreen calculator?
Yes, it does.
Can bilingual dictionaries be used for reading as well as Mathematics?
Yes, they can.
With the Entry level writing assessments can we see all the assessments and choose which assessment suits each learner best?
Yes, you can
What large print and braille assessments are available and how long will it take to order adapted papers?
Full information about modified paper is available here:
This includes the form for requesting a paper. Modified tests need to be ordered ten weeks in advance.
Do we have to video all speaking and listening tests for all levels?
No, you do not.
How will the invigilator know which questions the students are allowed dictionaries for?
The learners will be allowed dictionaries for the full reading assessment.
If you have one student taking an assessment does the Standards Verifier process still apply?
Yes, it does.
The on-demand papers are live from the moment they arrive at the centre to 5 days after the booked date, does this mean exams can be run before the booked date?
Yes, they can.
For all levels in Maths how do we arrange for extra time between the non and calculator exams?
25% can be added via EOL. In terms of timings, that 25% will be added to both sections.
Is the mini (practice) test run on the POP software? (exam dashboard, invigilator dashboard and test player?)
No, it is run on the same version of POP as the practice tests.
When you said for English writing, students can't use spell check, is this overruled if the student has access arrangement in place such a scribe -which would be normally be replaced with word processor with spell check enabled?
No, it would not.
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Does Pearson provide exemplar Speaking, Listening and Communicating videos?
Yes, we do. The Entry Level videos are available on our Course Materials page, and the Level 1 and 2 videos are part of the OSCA process. You will need an EdexcelOnline account to access these resources.
Does Pearson provide exemplar Speaking, Listening and Communicating paperwork?
Yes, we do. The Entry Level paperwork, and the Level 1 and 2 paperwork are available on our Course Materials page here.
Where can I get word versions of the Speaking, Listening and Communicating paperwork?
The word versions of the Speaking, Listening and Communicating paperwork are available on our Course Materials page.
How often will I receive a visit for Level 1 and 2 Speaking, Listening and Communicating?
Due to changes in the Ofqual requirements, each centre will now be moderated each year. This will either be through a face to face or a remote visit. Your Standards Verifier will inform you.
How often will I receive a visit for Entry Level ?
You will receive an annual visit which will cover all of Entry Level Functional Skills.
When will my Standards Verifier be assigned to my centre?
A Standards Verifier will be allocated to your centre before Christmas. They will usually contact you in the new year to arrange a remote visit.
When will the visits happen?
Visits usually take place between February and June, depending on the availability of live assessment material. If you need a visit before this, then you may request one by contacting the assessment team. The visit must take place before the end of July.
What do I need to have ready for my Level 1 and 2 Standards Verifier visit?
The Standards Verifier will inform you of everything you will need. This will include: - Assessment Record Sheets - Videos of live assessments (audio recordings not accepted) - Evidence of internal verification and standardisation - Lead IV feedback. Please refer to QA Handbook.
What do I need to have ready for my Entry Level Standards Verifier visit?
When your Standards Verifier contacts you they will provide a list of what they need to see. This will include videos of assessments as well as live assessments on the day (if possible), Assessment Record Sheets including evidence of internal verification, information on learner recruitment, induction and tracking and review of testing facilities and test delivery.
Do I have to video every learner?
No. For levels 1 and 2, we need to see evidence of each task at each level, which can be in the form of a video, though the preference is for live assessments. For Entry Level, we need evidence of one learner completing each task at every level you are offering, which can be in the form of a video, though the preference is for live assessments.
What is the procedure if a learner does not want to be videoed?
It depends. For face-to-face assessments only a sample have to be videoed and so it would be possible not to video the activity (provided that it wasn't the only assessment). We require all remote assessments to be videoed and so the centre would have to apply for an exemption.
Can I use Teams or other onscreen video communication tools?
Yes, you can. Please ensure that these calls are recorded.
Can I assess different Entry Levels at the same time?
As the tasks are different for each level, we do not recommend this.
Can I assess Level 1 and 2 at the same time?
Yes, you can, but consideration needs to be given to the needs of the Level 2 learners who need the tasks to be longer and more detailed.
Can my learner use sign language?
If it is their usual way of working, yes they can.
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How do I access live assessments for Entry Level Functional Skills?
You can access the live assessments once you’ve registered learners. You’ll find them in the secure section of the Edexcel website. To access these assessments you’ll need your Edexcel Online username and password.
What do I need to have ready for my Entry Level Standards Verifier visit?
When your Standards Verifier contacts you they will provide a list of what they need to see. This will include videos of assessments as well as live assessments on the day (if possible), Assessment Record Sheets including evidence of internal verification, information on learner recruitment, induction and tracking and review of testing facilities and test delivery.
How often will I receive a visit for Entry Level?
You will receive an annual visit which will cover all of Entry Level Functional Skills.
When will my Standards Verifier be assigned to my centre?
A Standards Verifier will be allocated to your centre before Christmas. They will usually contact you in the new year to arrange a remote visit.
When will the visits happen?
Visits usually take place between February and June, depending on the availability of live assessment material. If you need a visit before this, then you may request one by contacting the assessment team. The visit must take place before the end of July.
Is there IV paperwork for the Entry Level papers?
There is no specific IV paperwork. The IV signs the bottom of the assessor paperwork.
Is it possible to have two lead IVs, one for each subject, English and Maths?
Yes, it is.
With the Entry level writing assessments can we see all the assessments and choose which assessment suits each learner best?
Yes, you can.
What happens if a learner fails all the Entry Level assessments at their level?
If this happens, the learner can retake the first assessment they took. We strongly recommend that suitable teaching and learning takes place before this.
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Is there no scribe, spell check etc on the writing paper across all awarding bodies?
Yes, this is the same for all Awarding Organisations
Can Claro read be used on Reading paper exams?
Yes, it can.
Can learners have a thesaurus for both reading and writing assessments?
Learners can only use a thesaurus, if they require one, on the reading papers.
Do the English Reading and Writing assessments have to be held in one session, or even on the same day?
No, they do not.
Can bilingual dictionaries be used for reading?
Yes they can.
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Can learners use a scientific calculator in the assessment?
The learners are allowed to use a scientific calculator on the calculator sections. The only exemption to this is on the remotely invigilated assessments where the learners must use the onscreen calculator. We do recommend using the onscreen calculator on all our onscreen assessments as the copy to working button helps reduce transcription errors.
Learners are not allowed to use a programmable calculator.
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FAQs
What is the pass mark for Edexcel Functional Skills? ›
Typically, the pass mark for Edexcel (Pearson) functional skills maths level 2 past papers is between 50% and 60%, which is between 32 and 38 marks.
How do you pass a Functional Skills exam? ›- Before the exam. ...
- Be sure to use revision resources that are made for Functional Skills Reforms. ...
- Find out what format your exam will be in. ...
- Write down a list of topics that you need to revise and create a revision timetable. ...
- Use your time wisely! ...
- Most importantly – try not to stress. ...
- On the day of the exam.
Functional Skills Maths
Both Level 1 and Level 2 assessments are designed to have a pass mark in the range of 32-37 marks.
Functional skills assessments are graded either pass or fail, unlike GCSEs.
Are Edexcel exams easy? ›Cambridge and Edexcel are very challenging curricula and sometimes you require the help of an expert tutor to help you score the best grade possible.
Are Functional Skills exams easy? ›Functional Skills aren't necessarily easier. You'll still need to put in the hard work and revision. But, they can be better suited to students who have failed maths and English. The trouble with GCSE is that oftentimes, exam questions are not put into any context.
What is the pass mark for Edexcel functional skills Level 1? ›The pass mark for Edexcel Entry Level 1, 2 and 3 exams is 75%.
What percentage is a pass in functional skills? ›Wondering if you are ready to pass your functional skills maths level 2? Why not take a pre-assessment test and see if you are ready to pass. Anything around 60% would be a pass.
How many times can you sit a functional skills exam? ›How many times can learners resit their assessments? Learners can resit the tests as many times as required.
What percentage do you need to pass a Functional Skills level 2? ›The functional skills maths level 2 pass mark is usually around 50% to 55%.
Is Functional Skills level 2 hard to pass? ›
While Functional Skills Level 2 Maths and Functional Skills English are simpler and quicker to complete, their recognition as C/4 GCSE grade equivalents does mean you will be required to meet a certain level of subject proficiency to pass the Functional Skills exam.
What is the pass mark for Level 2 Functional Skills? ›What is the functional skills level 2 pass mark? This varies from exam to exam and from exam board to exam board, but generally the pass mark for the level 2 maths exam is around 55% and English reading and writing is similar.
How are Functional Skills marked? ›For Functional Skills English, maximum marks and pass marks for individual components are shown in raw marks. Maximum marks and pass marks for the overall qualification (the 'cash-in') are shown in points.
What is the highest level in Functional Skills? ›Functional skills form part of all apprenticeship frameworks and all new apprenticeship standards – although learners who already have obtained the level required by the apprenticeship will be exempt from undertaking them. The new GCSEs have a 9 to 1 grading scale to replace A* to G, with 9 being the highest grade.
How long should you revise for Functional Skills? ›At learndirect, our Functional Skills qualifications have been designed to give you a well-rounded knowledge of your chosen subject (be it English and Maths, or ICT). So, you need to set aside around 45 hours of your time to learn everything and be ready for a Functional Skills exam.
Is Edexcel accepted in USA? ›Pearson Edexcel IALs are recognised by US universities including: Yale, Columbia, Cornell, Dartmouth College, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) and California Institute of Technology (Caltech).
How long do Edexcel results take? ›Exam results are typically available online six weeks after you take your exams .
Is Edexcel difficult? ›Edexcel – This board has the toughest science questions alongside AQA but edexcel takes a slight upper hand here. Edexcel – The time limit of this exam is said to be difficult to cope with. Although, the grade boundaries are quite reasonable therefore it's easier to pass.
Do functional skills expire? ›No, Functional Skills Level 2 qualifications do not expire. So, once you have successfully passed your Functional Skills exam online, you should have your Functional Skills qualification for life, whether that is in Functional Skills Maths, Functional Skills English, or Functional Skills ICT Level 2.
Can I do a functional skills exam at home? ›Functional Skills Exam at HOME
Edexcel Online Functional Skills Exams are conducted in the Privacy of the Candidates own HOME. Colleges and Universities will accept Functional Skills Online Examinations as being equivalent to GCSE. Functional Skills Exams at Home are available any Day and Time of your choosing.
How many marks do you need to pass level 1 functional skills maths? ›
They consist of two sections, Section A, a non-calculator section worth 25% of all potential marks, and Section B, a calculator section worth the remaining 75%. Students will require a pen, pencil, ruler, and rubber, as well as a calculator for Section B only. The pass percentage for all three levels is 75%.
How long does it take to pass functional skills maths? ›On average the course takes learners between 8 and 12 weeks however we have had learners complete the course very quickly and similarly if you need longer we allow up to a year for all of our Functional Skills courses. Do universities accept Functional Skills?
What Mark is an A level pass? ›For passing grades, 40% corresponds to an E grade, 50% a D, 60% a C, 70% a B, and 80% an A. The A* grade was introduced in 2010 and is awarded to candidates who average 80% UMS across all modules, with a score over 90% UMS in all A2 modules.
Is 60% a passing score? ›In fact, a “D” is considered passing in both high school and college, as it's above 60%. While a passing grade may be as low as 60%, you will want to aim higher for many reasons. As a college student, you don't want to aim to barely pass a class.
Do you get a certificate for passing Functional Skills? ›Our Edexcel Level 1 and Level 2 Functional Skills English qualifications are broken down into 3 units which can be completed at different times throughout your course. You'll receive a Pass (P) or Unclassified (U) for each unit and then, when you've passed all three units, you'll receive a certificate.
What is the pass mark for Functional Skills English Level 2 Open Awards? ›Levels 1 and 2
Each English Reading assessment is designed to enable a pass mark of 18 out of 30 and each English Writing assessment is designed to enable a pass mark of 36 out of 60.
Can You Use a Calculator in Functional Skills Test? Yes, but only for certain sections of the exam. This is one of the most common Functional Skills Maths Level 2 questions and answers. Your exam will outline the sections in which you can use a calculator.
Can I just take Functional Skills exam online? ›Can I take functional skills exam online? Pass Functional skills offers online functional skills maths level 2, where you are able to take the exam in the comfort of your own home. This means you will be able to take the exam on your laptop or computer in your house, with an invigilator watching you via webcam.
How to pass writing exam? ›- Perform a "memory dump." Write down all the information you have had to memorize for the exam in note form.
- Read the questions and instructions carefully. ...
- Formulate a thesis that answers the question. ...
- Organize your supporting points. ...
- Make a persuasive argument.
Functional Skills Maths and English qualifications at Level 2 demonstrate your ability and competence in Numeracy and Literacy and are considered equivalent to a GCSE C or above. The qualifications are now accepted by the majority of universities for a variety of courses.
What is a grade pass at level 2? ›
Level 2. Level 2 qualifications are: CSE - grade 1. GCSE - grades 9, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4 or grades A*, A, B, C.
What does a Level 2 pass mean? ›Vocational qualifications are graded pass, merit, distinction at level one, then level 2 pass (roughly equivalent to GCSE grade 4) then climbing to Level 2 distinction (roughly GCSE level 7) before the top grade of Level 2 Distinction star (L2D*).
What is the purpose of functional skills? ›Functional skills provide an individual with essential knowledge, skills and understanding that will enable them to operate confidently, effectively and independently in life and work. They are learning tools that enable learners to: Apply their knowledge and understanding to everyday life.
What are the main elements of functional skills? ›- English. ...
- Mathematics. ...
- Information and communication technology. ...
- Use your functional skills daily. ...
- Read publications.
Having a solid understanding of literacy, numeracy and ICT will give you a boost in confidence when it comes to applying for jobs. Many roles require you to have Level 2 qualifications in Maths and English, so by studying Functional Skills, you will be able to confidently pursue jobs that list the criteria.
What can I do after functional skills Level 2? ›- Access to Higher Education. Access to HE Health Professionals Access to HE Midwifery Access to HE Science View more.
- Access to Higher Education Nursing. Access to HE Diploma (Nursing) View more.
- A Levels & GCSEs. ...
- Teaching & Education. ...
- Professional Services. ...
- Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL) ...
- Beauty & Well-Being.
Passing NCEA Level 1 involves gaining a minimum of 80 credits.
How many exams are in functional skills? ›There are 3-exams that you need to complete for English, including a Reading Exam, Writing Exam, and a Speaking & Listening Assessment.
How many hours of revision a day is enough? ›According to The Student Room, students revise 15 to 20 hours per week for their exams, which might sound a lot until you break it down. You've probably worked it out for yourself, but the recommended time equates to three to five hours of revision per day with weekends off!
Is an hour of revision enough? ›You should aim to revise for one to two hours a day, but it doesn't have to be all in one go. In fact, taking breaks whilst revising is much more beneficial than just doing it all in one go. You give your brain a chance to rest, which is crucial to the success of your revision – and eventually exams.
How many hours of revision is too much? ›
Attempting to take in a lot of information all at once is really hard on your brain and helps contribute to a lack of concentration, boredom and that constant nagging desire to check your phone! In short, seven hours a day is too much revision.
What is the pass mark for functional skills maths level 1 Edexcel? ›The pass mark for Edexcel Entry Level 1, 2 and 3 exams is 75%.
What is the pass mark for Pearson Edexcel functional skills Level 2? ›Edexcel ICT Functional Skills Level 2 exams contain a maximum of 50 marks, with the pass mark being approximately 72% (36 marks).
What is a pass in functional skills equivalent to? ›What Are Functional Skills? Functional Skills are recognised GCSE alternative qualifications, with a Functional Skills Level 2 course being equivalent to a GCSE grade 4 (C), providing a clear answer for those wondering 'What is Level 2 equivalent to?'
What percentage is a pass in Functional Skills? ›Wondering if you are ready to pass your functional skills maths level 2? Why not take a pre-assessment test and see if you are ready to pass. Anything around 60% would be a pass.
How long does it take to pass Functional Skills maths? ›On average the course takes learners between 8 and 12 weeks however we have had learners complete the course very quickly and similarly if you need longer we allow up to a year for all of our Functional Skills courses. Do universities accept Functional Skills?
How many times can you resit Functional Skills? ›How many times can learners resit their assessments? Learners can resit the tests as many times as required.
How long do Functional Skills exam results take? ›With Pass Functional Skills you will get your exam results within as little as 1 week of sitting the exam. Please note that results can take up to a maximum of 10 working days.
Do Functional Skills expire? ›No, Functional Skills Level 2 qualifications do not expire. So, once you have successfully passed your Functional Skills exam online, you should have your Functional Skills qualification for life, whether that is in Functional Skills Maths, Functional Skills English, or Functional Skills ICT Level 2.