Your Choices after GCSEs

There is no single best pathway after GCSEs. The right choice depends on the subjects you enjoy, how you learn best and what you want to do afterwards.

Post-16 qualifications are changing across England. From practical courses and apprenticeships to newer qualifications such as T Levels and V Levels, there are different routes to explore. Select an option below to understand the differences. 

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Your Options After GCSEs

Important information

  • Entry requirements vary by course and subject. The requirements below are a guide. Please check the individual course information before applying.
  • If you have not achieved grade 4 in English and/or Maths, you will normally continue studying these alongside your main course.
  • V Levels will be introduced in phases from September 2027.

Explore your options

Select an option to find out more.

  • T Levels

    A technical qualification linked to an industry.

    Duration

    2 years.

    Typical entry requirements

    Five GCSEs at grades 4–9, including English and Maths. Requirements may vary by course.

    What makes it different?

    Includes a 45-day work placement in industry.

    Next steps

    • University
    • Higher or degree apprenticeship
    • Job

    View our T Level courses

  • V Levels

    Industry-focused qualifications that can be combined with A Levels or other V Levels.

    Introduced in phases from September 2027.

    Duration

    2 years.

    Typical entry requirements

    Five GCSEs at grades 4–9, including English and Maths. Requirements may vary by subject.

    What makes it different?

    Mix V Levels with A Levels to get a taste of both academic and practical subjects.

    Next steps

    • University
    • Higher or degree apprenticeship
    • Job

    Find out more about V Levels

  • BTEC – Levels 1, 2 and 3

    Practical and classroom-based learning, assessed through assignments, practical work and exams. BTECs will be phased out over the next few years.

    Duration

    1 or 2 years.

    Typical entry requirements

    • Level 3: typically four or more GCSEs at grades 4–9, including English and/or Maths.
    • Levels 1 and 2: requirements vary by course.

    What makes it different?

    Get industry experience through practical projects and assignments.

    Next steps

    • University
    • Apprenticeship
    • Higher-level study
    • Job

    Explore BTEC courses

  • Apprenticeships

    A paid job with training. Learn at work and with a college.

    Duration

    Varies.

    Typical entry requirements

    Requirements vary by employer and apprenticeship provider.

    What makes it different?

    Earn a wage whilst you learn.

    Next steps

    An apprenticeship is a job, with opportunities for career progression.

    Explore apprenticeships

  • English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL)

    Develop the English skills you need for study, work and everyday life.

    Duration

    Varies.

    Typical entry requirements

    Requirements vary by English level and previous qualifications.

    What makes it different?

    You may also be able to study Maths, vocational subjects or other qualifications alongside your ESOL.

    Next steps

    • A Levels, T Levels or V Levels
    • Vocational courses
    • Apprenticeship
    • Further study
    • Job

    Explore ESOL courses

  • Supported Personalised Pathways (SEND)

    If you have special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND), you can access many of the routes above with appropriate support.

    Duration

    Varies.

    Typical entry requirements

    Requirements vary by need.

    What makes it different?

    Includes supported and personalised study programmes and supported internships.

    Next steps

    • Further study
    • Supported internship
    • Apprenticeship
    • Job
    • Volunteering
    • Independent adulthood

    Explore supported personalised pathways