5th November 26
Functional maths level 1 is a Maths qualification that sits a step below a GCSE pass. It suits you if an employer or training provider has asked for Level 1, or if you want a solid foundation before moving up. Here's what it covers, how it's marked and how to take the exam.
What is functional maths level 1?
Functional maths level 1 means Functional Skills Maths at Level 1. It's a regulated qualification where you use number, measure and data skills in everyday situations, and it's marked pass or fail. People use the name functional maths in different ways, so look for the words Functional Skills and Level 1 together to be sure you're looking at the right thing.
Level 1 sits between Entry Level and Level 2. Our guide to Functional Skills levels shows how they fit together.
What is Level 1 equivalent to?
The government's list of qualification levels puts Level 1 Functional Skills at the same level as GCSE grades 3 to 1, which are grades D to G on the old scale.
That means Level 1 isn't a GCSE pass. If you've been asked for a grade 4 or equivalent, you'll need Level 2. Our equivalence guide explains more.
Functional Skills Maths Level 1 topics
The Functional Skills Maths Level 1 topics fall into the same three areas as Level 2: using numbers, measure, shape and space, and handling data. The difference is the level of difficulty. TQUK's qualification specification sets out the full subject content for Level 1.
How is Level 1 marked?
Level 1 Maths is one assessment in two sections, one without a calculator and one with, as TQUK's factsheet explains. TQUK sets 55 guided learning hours for it, the same as Level 2.
What is the Functional Skills Maths Level 1 pass mark? It isn't one fixed number. Awarding organisations set the pass mark for each version of an assessment, so it can change from paper to paper.
Our guide to pass marks and grades explains how this works. For the same reason, treat any single Functional Skills Maths Level 1 pass mark you see online with care.
Level 1 Functional Skills Maths past papers and practice tests
TQUK says sample assessments and practice papers are available through its website, so you can practise with Level 1 Functional Skills Maths past papers and sample materials from your awarding organisation. Our guide to Maths papers and revision shows how to use them.
Functional Skills Maths Level 1 practice tests help you get used to the two sections, especially the non-calculator part. Whichever Functional Skills Maths Level 1 practice tests you use, do them under timed conditions, mark them honestly and revise the topics that cost you marks. A marked mock exam from a tutor goes one step further, because it tells you why you lost marks.
Level 1 or Level 2?
Level 1 is the right choice if it's exactly what you've been asked for. But for many people, Level 2 is the more useful qualification. It sits at the same level as GCSE grades 9 to 4, and it's what employers and colleges most often ask for.
You don't have to do Level 1 first. Our Level 2 courses have no entry requirements, so you can start at Level 2 straight away if you feel ready. If Level 1 is what you need, that's fine too.
How to take your Level 1 exam with us
If functional maths level 1 is what you need, our Maths Exam can be taken at Level 1 or Level 2, and it's taken online from home.
- Exams are available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
- You'll need to allow at least four weeks' notice.
- You can expect your results and certification within six weeks of your final exam.
Prefer to study first?
- Functional Skills Maths Level 2 Including Exams includes your course and online exam.
- Functional Skills Maths Level 2 Excluding Exams is the course only.
Not sure which level you need? Take the career quiz, download your Functional Skills brochure, or speak to a course adviser on 01202 006 464. For the full picture, read about Functional Skills Maths.
