5th November 26
Functional Skills English is a practical qualification in reading, writing, and speaking, listening and communicating. It's the English route many adults choose when they need a GCSE equivalent without going back to school. This guide covers the levels, how it's assessed, and how you can qualify online.
What is Functional Skills English?
What is Functional Skills English? It's a regulated English qualification that shows you can use your skills in real situations, such as writing a clear email or understanding a letter. English functional skills are marked pass or fail, so there's no grade to chase.
You may also see it called functional English skills. Whichever name you hear, it means the same thing: English that works in everyday life and at work.
Functional Skills English levels
There are three Functional Skills English levels: Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2. The government's list of qualification levels shows Functional Skills at those three levels only.
- Entry Level builds confidence and sits below GCSE level.
- Level 1 sits at the same level as GCSE grades 3 to 1.
- Level 2 sits at the same level as GCSE grades 9 to 4.
Our guide to Functional Skills levels explains each in more detail, and our equivalence guide covers what each is worth.
What does Functional Skills English cover?
English functional skills cover three areas: reading, writing, and speaking, listening and communicating (SLC). Reading checks you can understand what you read. Writing checks you can put your ideas on paper clearly. SLC checks how well you communicate when you speak and listen.
Functional Skills English speaking and listening is the part many people worry about, but it's assessed as part of your course route, and your tutor can help you prepare.
How is Functional Skills English assessed?
You take your exam online from home. Reading and writing are exams, and SLC is an assessment. Each part is marked pass or fail, and you can resit a part on its own if you need to.
Exams are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and you'll need to allow at least four weeks' notice. You can expect your results and certification within six weeks of your final exam.
How long does Functional Skills English take?
TQUK, our awarding organisation, sets 55 guided learning hours for each level of Functional Skills. That's about four weeks at two hours a day, but your own time depends on how confident you feel. Our courses give you up to 12 months. See how long Functional Skills takes.
Who is Functional Skills English for?
Functional Skills English suits adults who need an English qualification for work, study or an apprenticeship, and anyone who wants to show they can communicate clearly. Strong functional English skills help in almost every job, from writing a clear message to following written instructions.
What happens after you pass?
You'll receive your certification within six weeks of your final exam. Many learners use it to apply for jobs, move on to a course or support an application to college. Our guide to getting your certificate explains the steps.
Which route is right for you?
You can study Functional Skills English at Level 2 with us in three ways:
- Functional Skills English Level 2 Including Exams includes your course and online exam.
- Functional Skills English Level 2 Excluding Exams is the course only.
- Our English Exam is the exam only, and it can be taken at Level 1 or Level 2.
If you need Maths too, Functional Skills English and Maths Level 2 Including Exams covers both subjects.
Go deeper on Functional Skills English
- Starting below Level 2? Read about Functional Skills English Level 1.
- Preparing for your exam? See our guide to Functional Skills English past papers and revision.
- Want to know what happens after you pass? Read how to get your certificate.
Our Level 2 courses have no entry requirements, so you can start from wherever you are. Download your Functional Skills brochure, find your course, or speak to a course adviser on 01202 006 464.
