GCSE Maths vs Further Maths: What Are the Differences?

Every student in Year 11 takes GCSE Maths. But what about GCSE Further Maths? Is it worth considering? And what exactly makes it different? 

If you're wondering whether Further Maths is right for you, or simply curious about what sets these two qualifications apart, you're in the right place. Our guide will tell you everything you need to know about GCSE Maths vs Further Maths, from content and difficulty to who should consider taking both.

Key Takeaways

• GCSE Maths is compulsory for all students in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. It's a core subject you'll need for most careers and further education.

• GCSE Further Maths is optional and much more advanced. It builds on Higher Tier content and introduces topics you'd normally see at A Level.

• Further Maths is perfect for strong mathematicians aiming for top grades or planning to study STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Maths) at A Level or university.

What Is GCSE Maths?

GCSE Maths is a qualification every student in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland must take. It's one of the core subjects, alongside English and Science. It’s probably one of the subjects that you have the most lessons in every week.

At the end of two years of study, you take your exams. These are split into two tiers: Foundation and Higher. 

• Foundation Tier covers mathematical concepts listed in the course syllabus and is suited to students looking to nail the grade 4.

• Higher Tier is more challenging and targets grades 4-9.

The GCSE Maths curriculum covers six main topic areas: 

1. Number

   • Fractions

   • Decimals

   • Percentages

   • Structure and Calculation

2. Algebra

   • Notation and Manipulation

   • Graphs

   • Equations

   • Sequences

3. Ratio, Proportion, Rates of Change

   • Ratio Notation

   • Real-life Ration Problems

4. Geometry and Measures

   • Angles

   • Vectors

   • Shape Properties

5. Probability

   • Frequency of Outcomes

   • Theoretical Probability

6. Statistics

   • Interpreting Tables, Charts, and Diagrams

   • Correlation

It doesn’t matter which exam board your school uses, all students sit three exam papers, and grades range from 9 (the highest) to 1 (the lowest). 

• Grade 4 is considered a standard pass.

• Grade 5 is considered a strong pass.

What Is GCSE Further Maths?

GCSE Further Maths is an optional qualification. It's not a replacement for GCSE Maths, so if you choose Further Maths, you take it alongside your regular Maths GCSE.

Not all schools offer Further Maths, so availability varies. It's designed specifically for students who are excelling in Higher Tier Maths and want to push themselves further. It’s especially useful for those students who know they want to focus on a specific career path. For example, engineering, economics, and some sciences could benefit from Further Maths at GCSE.

Further Maths is a Level 2 qualification, just like GCSE Maths. However, it covers much more advanced content and introduces topics you'd normally encounter at A Level.

The qualification is aimed at students who are on track for a Grade 7, 8, or 9 in GCSE Maths. If you're finding Higher Tier manageable and enjoy problem-solving, Further Maths could be a great fit.

AQA is the only exam board that delivers the GCSE Further Mathematics qualification. Other boards also stretch maths high-achievers, but with different courses.

• AQA's Level 2 GCSE Certificate in Further Maths (opens in a new tab) uses the 9-1 grading scale, with grades ranging from 5 to 9. 

• OCR (opens in a new tab) offers a similar qualification, but it is called Additional Maths, and it is graded from A-E, with A being the highest grade. 

• Edexcel (opens in a new tab) also offers something similar, called Extended Maths. This has a four-grade scale: pass, merit, distinction, and distinction*.

GCSE Maths vs Further Maths: Side-by-Side Comparison

Here's a quick comparison to help you see the key differences:

What's Covered in Further Maths?

Further Maths goes well beyond the GCSE Maths curriculum. It introduces you to mathematical concepts that you'd normally only see in Year 12 or 13.

Here are some of the topics commonly covered:

• Surds and proof: working with irrational numbers and proving mathematical statements.

• Trigonometric identities: exploring relationships between sine, cosine, and tangent.

• Matrices: understanding arrays of numbers and their operations.

• Calculus: an introduction to differentiation and integration.

• Functions: analysing how mathematical relationships work.

• Complex algebra: solving harder algebraic problems involving quadratics and inequalities.

These topics give you a head start on A Level Maths. Many students who take Further Maths find the jump to A Level much less steep.

Is Further Maths Harder Than GCSE Maths?

Yes, it's definitely more challenging. Further Maths assumes you already have a strong grasp of Higher Tier GCSE content.

It's specifically designed for students working comfortably at Grade 7, 8, or 9 level. The questions require deeper problem-solving skills and more abstract thinking than standard GCSE Maths. That said, if you're a strong mathematician who enjoys the subject, Further Maths can be incredibly rewarding. It stretches your abilities and prepares you brilliantly for A Level study.

Should I Take Further Maths?

Further Maths isn't for everyone. It's most beneficial if:

• You genuinely enjoy GCSE Maths and find Higher Tier content manageable.

• You're planning a STEM pathway - subjects like Physics, Engineering, Computer Science, or Maths at A Level.

• You want to prepare early for A Level Maths or Further Maths.

• You're aiming for top grades and want an extra academic challenge.

Things to consider:

Here are some questions to consider if you’re tempted by Further Maths:

Can you handle the extra workload alongside your other GCSEs? Further Maths requires additional study time and commitment.

Is it available at your school? Not all schools offer the qualification. If yours doesn't, you may be able to study it online or through an external provider.

Will it genuinely benefit your future plans? If you're not planning to study Maths or STEM subjects at A Level, it might not be essential.

If you can answer “yes” to these questions, you and Further Maths might be a perfect match.

GCSE Further Maths and University Applications

GCSE Further Maths is not a requirement for university entry. However, it does show universities that you're serious about Maths and capable of handling advanced content. It demonstrates strong academic commitment and problem-solving ability. If you’re considering economics, physics, engineering or another competitive course at an elite university, Further Maths can be an advantage.

But, most importantly, it gives you a significant head start when you begin A Level Maths or Further Maths. Students who've taken GCSE Further Maths often find the transition to A Level smoother and less overwhelming. Find out more in our guide exploring the GCSEs you need to study A Level Maths.

Where Can I Study GCSE Further Maths?

Not all schools offer Further Maths. This is often due to timetabling constraints, staffing, or limited student numbers.

If your school doesn't offer it, here are some alternatives:

• Online providers - many organisations offer distance learning courses.

• Independent entry - your school might support you to sit the exam, even if they don't formally teach the course.

• Sixth form enrichment - some sixth forms offer Further Maths as an extra subject in Year 11 or Year 12.

Start by speaking to your Maths teacher. They'll be able to advise you on what's possible at your school.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Further Maths a GCSE or an A Level?

GCSE Further Maths is a separate Level 2 qualification, equivalent to GCSE. It's not the same as A Level Further Maths, which is a much more advanced course you take after GCSEs.

Can I take Further Maths without taking GCSE Maths?

No. Further Maths is designed to be studied alongside GCSE Maths, not instead of it. You need to be doing both.

Will Further Maths help with A Level Maths?

Definitely. It introduces many A Level topics early, including calculus, proof, and complex algebra. This gives you a real advantage and boosts your confidence going into Year 12.

What if my school doesn't offer Further Maths?

You can study independently or online. Speak to a teacher about the logistics and whether your school can support you with exam entry. Some students successfully self-study using online resources and textbooks.

Final Thoughts

GCSE Further Maths is an excellent option if you're passionate about Maths and excel in the subject. It's more challenging than standard GCSE Maths, but it provides a clear academic advantage, especially if you're planning to study STEM subjects at A Level or university.

It's a great scratch subject for strong mathematicians, and it's a brilliant way to push yourself and prepare for what's ahead.

If you're unsure whether it's right for you, have a chat with your Maths teacher. They'll know your strengths and can help you decide. And, if you do take the Further Maths plunge, Save My Exams has revision resources to support you every step of the way.

References

AQA GCSE Further Mathematics Specification (opens in a new tab)

OCR GCSE Additional Mathematics Specification (opens in a new tab)

Edexcel GCSE Extended Mathematics Specification (opens in a new tab)