What Makes Functional Skills the Best Alternative to GCSE in 2025

Functional Skills qualifications are becoming the top choice for adults and students who want a quicker, more practical way to meet entry requirements for jobs, university, or apprenticeships. But what makes them the best GCSE alternative in 2025?

Let’s explore what makes Functional Skills such a powerful option.

Functional Skills are nationally recognised qualifications in English and Maths. They are approved by Ofqual and accepted by employers, apprenticeship providers, and most universities across the UK.

They’re not just exam-based — they test real-world skills. Whether you book an online Functional Skills Maths exam or an online English exam, you’ll be assessed on communication, comprehension, numeracy and problem-solving.

Unlike GCSEs, Functional Skills exams can be taken any week of the year. You can choose to take the test online or in person at Intech Centre’s Islington exam centre. Results are typically delivered within 20 working days, making them ideal for those on a tight deadline.

And if you book your exam through Intech Centre, you also get access to a 50 percent discounted course — perfect if you want to revise at your own pace.

Functional Skills is perfect for:

Adults who missed their GCSEs

Jobseekers needing quick certification

Students applying to university

Professionals retraining or upskilling

Employers looking to fund staff education

Learn more about how Intech Centre supports adult learners.

Functional Skills Level 2 in Maths or English is accepted for:

NHS jobs

University foundation degrees

Teaching assistant roles

Construction apprenticeships