What Are the Most Popular GCSE Subjects in 2025?

Introduction

Choosing your GCSE subjects can feel like a big decision, and it’s natural to wonder which ones most students in the UK are taking. Knowing the most popular GCSE subjects may help you feel more confident about your own choices. You might be curious about which GCSEs are compulsory, which are trending, and how your subject choices could help your future plans.

Using the latest 2025 data (opens in a new tab) from the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ), this guide explains which GCSEs have the highest number of entries, why they’re so widely chosen, and whether popularity should really influence your own subject choices.

Key Takeaways

• The most popular GCSEs in 2025 are English, Maths, and Science, which are compulsory for nearly all students.

• Popular optional subjects include History, Geography, and Art & Design.

• Popularity often reflects a subject’s usefulness for A Levels, university, or career goals.

• Choose your GCSEs based on your interests and strengths, not just what everyone else takes.

What Makes a GCSE Subject Popular?

When we talk about the most popular GCSE subjects, we’re usually referring to how many students across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland are entered for each one. These figures come from the official JCQ data (opens in a new tab) released every summer.

Some subjects are popular because they’re compulsory, like English, Maths, and Science. Others attract large numbers because they’re enjoyable, widely available, or useful for future study.

Subjects linked to A Levels, university courses, or specific careers also tend to be chosen more often. For example, students planning to study medicine or engineering often choose triple science, while those interested in law or politics might take History.

It’s important to remember that popularity doesn’t mean a subject is easier or better. Often, it simply shows that a subject develops skills or knowledge that many students find valuable for the next stage of their education.

The 10 Most Popular GCSE Subjects in 2025

According to official JCQ data (opens in a new tab), the top ten GCSE subjects in 2025 are:

The top ten subjects remain unchanged from 2024, reflecting the importance of the core GCSE curriculum. Humanities subjects like History and Geography continue to attract large numbers, while Art & Design remains one of the most popular creative options.

Just outside the top ten, Spanish (+2.6% from 2024 entries) and Business Studies (+2.1%) are both on the rise, reflecting a growing interest in global communication and entrepreneurship.

Why Students Choose These Subjects

Core Subjects

English Language, Maths, and Science are compulsory GCSEs for almost all students in the UK. These subjects form the foundation for whatever comes next after GCSEs. Strong grades in them are key requirements for sixth form, college, and university applications.

Popular Optional Subjects

Humanities subjects are well represented on the list. Subjects like History and Geography remain popular because they develop skills in essay writing, analysis, and argument. They suit students who enjoy discussion, evaluation, and understanding how past events or global systems shape the world today. 

Religious Studies attracts students who like debating ethics, beliefs, and moral issues, skills valued in law, social sciences, and education.

Creative and Science Choices

Art & Design continues to be a favourite among students who enjoy creative expression. It encourages problem-solving, design thinking, and attention to detail, all of which are valuable in the creative industries.

Single sciences such as Biology, Chemistry, and Physics appeal to students who want a deeper understanding of how the natural world works and may plan to study medicine, engineering, or research later on.

Other Influences

Students often choose subjects based on:

• Future goals: subjects linked to career or university ambitions

• School offering: availability can vary depending on school size and staffing

• Teacher influence: a supportive or inspiring teacher can make a big difference

• Personal interest: enjoying a subject makes revision and motivation much easier

Should You Choose a Subject Just Because It’s Popular?

It can be reassuring to choose a GCSE that lots of other students take, especially if it feels like the safe or expected option. However, popularity should never be the main reason for your choice.

Popular subjects often have more teaching resources and revision materials available. You’ll find plenty of revision notes, past papers, and flashcards available from Save My Exams. 

But that doesn’t mean they’re automatically the right fit for you. The best subjects are those that match your strengths, interests, and future goals.

Ask yourself:

• Do I enjoy the content and style of learning?

• Does this subject support what I want to study later?

• Can I stay motivated across the whole course?

Choosing GCSEs based on what genuinely interests you will make revision easier and improve your results. When you enjoy what you study, you’re more likely to stay confident, engaged, and successful.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are popular GCSE subjects easier?

No. Subjects like English, Maths, and Science are popular because they are compulsory for most students, not because they are easier. 

Every GCSE comes with its own challenges, and success depends on how well you prepare and how interested you are in the content.

What if my favourite subject isn’t popular?

That’s absolutely fine. Some of the most enjoyable and rewarding subjects have smaller class sizes, which can mean more personal support from teachers. 

Focus on what you enjoy and where you can do your best, rather than what everyone else is choosing.

Do universities care which GCSEs are popular?

No. Universities look at your grades, not how many people took the subject. 

They focus most on English, Maths, and subjects that link to your chosen degree or course.

Why are some subjects only offered in certain schools?

Each school builds its GCSE options based on staff expertise, timetable space, and student interest. 

If your school doesn’t offer a subject you’d like to take, speak to your teachers or careers adviser. There may be similar subjects available or other routes to explore your interests later on.

Choosing What’s Right for You

When it comes to GCSE choices, popularity is only one small part of the picture. The most important thing is choosing subjects that match your strengths, curiosity, and goals.

Whether you pick something widely taken or a subject that feels more unique, success comes from studying what you enjoy and putting in consistent effort. Your GCSE journey is personal, and enjoying what you learn is the best way to achieve great results. Good luck with your options!

For extra support with revision and preparation, explore Save My Exams’ wide range of GCSE revision resources, including revision notes, past papers, and exam questions. On average, students who use Save My Exams report improving by 2.6 grades*. We’ll help you feel confident and ready for every GCSE exam.

References

• Examination results - JCQ Joint Council for Qualifications (opens in a new tab)

• JCQ | GCSE entry level trends, UK – Summer 2025 (opens in a new tab)

• JCQ | Summer results – Level 2 and Level 1, 2 | Press notice (opens in a new tab)