5th November 26
Functional Skills come in three levels, and picking the right one saves you time. The short version: Level 2 is what most employers and colleges ask for, Functional Skills Level 1 is a step below, and Entry Level is where you build confidence. Here's how each works.
What level is Functional Skills?
What level is Functional Skills? There isn't just one. According to the government's list of qualification levels, Functional Skills are available at Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2. English and Maths each have all three.
Entry level Functional Skills
Entry level Functional Skills are the starting point. Entry Level comes in three sub-levels, and the government says Entry Level 3 is the most difficult. These qualifications sit below GCSE level, so they help you build confidence rather than meet most entry requirements.
If you're asking about Functional Skills Entry Level 1, that's the first step on the ladder. It suits you if you're rebuilding basic skills in reading, writing or number work.
Functional Skills Level 1
Functional Skills Level 1 sits at the same level as GCSE grades 3 to 1 (D to G on the old scale). It's a solid foundation, and some employers and training providers ask for it.
Level 1 isn't a GCSE pass, though, so it usually won't meet a requirement for a grade 4. If you've been asked for Level 1 specifically, our English Exam and Maths Exam can each be taken at Level 1 or Level 2. For more detail, see our guides to Level 1 English and Level 1 Maths.
Functional Skills Level 2
Level 2 sits at the same level as GCSE grades 9 to 4, which makes it the level most employers, colleges and universities ask for. If you need a qualification that matches a GCSE pass, this is the one. Our equivalence guide explains what it's worth.
You don't have to complete Level 1 first. Our Level 2 courses have no entry requirements, so you can start at Level 2 straight away.
Is there a Functional Skills Level 3?
No. Functional Skills Level 3 doesn't exist. The government's list shows Functional Skills at Entry Level, Level 1 and Level 2 only, and none appears in its list of Level 3 qualifications.
If you were hoping for something above Level 2, the Level 3 options include A-Levels and the Access to Higher Education Diploma. You'll find both on learndirect, including our A-Levels courses and Access to Higher Education Diploma courses. English and Maths at Level 2 often help you get there, so Functional Skills can be the first step.
Which level do you need?
Check what the employer, college or training provider has asked for. If it says GCSE grade 4 or equivalent, you need Level 2. If it says Level 1, you need Level 1. If it isn't clear, ask them directly and get the answer in writing.
If you're not sure, Level 2 is usually the safer choice, because a higher level is normally accepted where Level 1 is asked for. Check that with the organisation, though.
Which level suits your goal?
- You've been asked for a GCSE grade 4 or equivalent. You need Level 2.
- A training provider has asked for Level 1. Functional Skills Level 1 is what you need, and our exam can be taken at that level.
- You're rebuilding basic skills. Entry Level, such as Functional Skills Entry Level 1, or Level 1 can be a gentle place to begin.
- You want to go on to university or an apprenticeship. Level 2 is the level most often asked for, so check the requirements for your course first.
How to get your level with learndirect
You can study Level 2 with us as a course with your exam included, or as a course on its own, and take the exam at Level 1 or Level 2.
- Functional Skills English and Maths Level 2 Including Exams
- Functional Skills English and Maths Level 2 Excluding Exams
Download your Functional Skills brochure below to compare the options, or speak to a course adviser on 01202 006 464.
