Requirements on setting GCSE, AS and A level grade boundaries

We are putting the new requirements in place because we are withdrawing the Code of Practice which contains the current rules for the GCSE (A* to G) qualifications and legacy AS and A levels. The new requirements reflect those in the Code. We are applying the same provisions to reformed AS and A levels.

Following analysis of responses to our consultation in December, we propose to implement the proposals in relation to setting specified levels of attainment on which we consulted.

We will therefore reflect some, but not all, of the current requirements in new rules and guidance when we withdraw the Code of Practice. In addition, we will introduce high-level requirements about the sort of evidence exam boards should take into account when setting grade boundaries.

We are introducing a qualification-level condition which requires exam boards to comply with any requirements that we set in relation to setting specified levels of attainment.

We are introducing a qualification-level condition requiring exam boards to have regard to an appropriate range of evidence when setting specified levels of attainment. We will support this with guidance providing examples of such evidence.

We are putting in place qualification-specific requirements about the way in which grade boundaries should be set. These will largely replicate what is in the appendices to the Code of Practice.

These are the proposals on which we previously consulted. We are not introducing any additional requirements beyond those on which we have already consulted.