Easiest GCSE Subjects To Pass & Best Practices To Get A 9
June 9, 2026 | 7 days | Hacks & Tips
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According to AQA’s results for June 2025, the easiest subjects were Further Maths, Bengali and Biology, with pass rates of 82.1%, 80.4% and 79.5% pass rates, respectively. These subjects vary every year, as different students may have different preferences and skills, which affect overall statistics.
Key factors that make GCSEs easier include:
- High pass rates: Subjects with 85%+ pass rates are statistically easier to achieve grade 4+
- Practical work components: Hands-on assessments often feel more accessible than pure theory
- Subjective elements: Subjects allowing personal interpretation and creative expression
- Prior knowledge: Languages you already speak or subjects building on familiar concepts
However, "easiest" varies significantly between students. A native Mandarin speaker will find Chinese GCSE straightforward, while someone with artistic talents might excel in creative subjects. The most important factor isn't choosing the "easiest" subjects, but selecting ones that align with your strengths, interests, and future goals.
Essential considerations:
- Core subjects (Maths and English) are mandatory regardless of difficulty
- University requirements may dictate specific subject choices
- School availability, as not all institutions offer every subject
- Career relevance should outweigh perceived ease
In the British educational system, GCSEs mark the transition from secondary school to professional pathways. While students must take core subjects, they can choose approximately eight additional subjects from over 80 options available. Understanding which subjects offer the best chances of success can help you make strategic decisions for your academic future.
What are the easiest GCSE subjects? (according to the June 2025 exam results)
| Subject | Overall pass rate | Percentage Achieving a 9 (%) |
| 1. Further Mathematics | 82.1% | 13.1% |
| 2. Bengali | 80.4% | 17.1% |
| 3. Biology | 79.5% | 12.7% |
| 4. Physics | 79.4% | 13.0% |
| 5. Chemistry | 78.1% | 10.3% |
| 6. Drama | 75.8% | 6.6% |
| 7. Music | 75.2% | 9.5% |
| 8. Chinese (Spoken Mandarin) | 71.7% | 25.5% |
| 9. Food preparation & Nutrition | 69.0% | 4.7% |
| 10. Media Studies | 68.6% | 4.7% |
1.1. Further Mathematics GCSE
Further Mathematics GCSE extends core mathematical concepts into more advanced territory, covering topics such as matrices, complex numbers, and higher-level algebra. It is designed for students with a strong aptitude for maths who want to deepen their understanding beyond the standard curriculum. With an overall pass rate of 82.1% and 13.1% achieving grade 9, it rewards analytical thinking and rigorous problem-solving skills.
1.2. Bengali GCSE
Bengali GCSE develops students' abilities in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in Bengali, with a focus on both formal and informal language use across a range of cultural contexts. It is particularly accessible to heritage speakers, which is reflected in its strong outcomes. With an overall pass rate of 80.4% and 17.1% achieving grade 9, it ranks among the highest-performing language GCSEs available.
1.3. Biology GCSE
Biology GCSE covers cell biology, organisation, infection and response, bioenergetics, homeostasis, inheritance, and ecology. Students develop practical skills through investigations and data analysis. With an overall pass rate of 79.5% and 12.7% achieving grade 9, it demonstrates solid performance across diverse biological topics.
1.4. Physics GCSE
Physics GCSE examines forces, energy, waves, electricity, and atomic physics through theoretical study and practical investigations. Students develop mathematical problem-solving skills and experimental techniques. With an overall pass rate of 79.4% and 13.0% achieving grade 9, it reflects its mathematical challenges and practical requirements .
1.5. Chemistry GCSE
Chemistry GCSE covers atomic structure, chemical bonding, organic chemistry, and practical laboratory skills. Students explore chemical reactions, periodic trends, and real-world applications while developing experimental techniques. With an overall pass rate of 78.1% and 10.3% achieving grade 9, it demonstrates strong performance in this demanding science subject.
1.6. Drama GCSE
Drama GCSE develops students' performance, devising, and analytical skills through practical work and written study of theatrical texts. Students explore a range of dramatic styles and traditions, both as performers and informed audience members. With an overall pass rate of 75.8% and 6.6% achieving grade 9, it is a strong option for students with a passion for the creative arts.
1.7. Music GCSE
Music GCSE combines performance, composition, and listening skills, allowing students to explore a wide range of musical styles and traditions. It suits learners who already play an instrument or have a background in music theory. With an overall pass rate of 75.2% and 9.5% achieving grade 9, it offers solid outcomes for students with genuine musical ability and dedication.
1.8. Chinese (Spoken Mandarin) GCSE
This GCSE emphasises spoken Mandarin proficiency alongside reading and writing skills using simplified characters. Students explore Chinese culture, traditions, and contemporary society while developing conversational abilities. With a strong 92.3% overall pass rate and 33.1% achieving grade 9, it reflects solid achievement in this challenging language.
1.9. Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE
Food Preparation and Nutrition GCSE combines practical cooking skills with the science behind nutrition, food safety, and dietary needs. Students learn to prepare a variety of dishes while developing an understanding of how food affects health and wellbeing. With an overall pass rate of 69.0% and 4.7% achieving grade 9, it is a highly accessible and hands-on option for students who enjoy practical learning.
1.10. Media Studies GCSE
Media Studies GCSE explores how media products are created, distributed, and consumed across platforms such as film, television, advertising, and social media. Students develop critical thinking and analytical skills by examining media language, representation, and audience. With an overall pass rate of 68.6% and 4.7% achieving grade 9, it is a practical and engaging choice for students interested in modern communication and culture.
Factors that make some GCSEs exams easier
Students usually share their thoughts about subjects on forums and blogs, but their opinions are extremely varied, due to the sheer number of subjects available. Of course, nobody has taken all of them and, thus, can't have an objective and comprehensive view on this matter. Fortunately, the UK Department of Education not only regulates examination boards but also collects data from them, allowing them to identify the easiest and most difficult GCSE subjects through comprehensive analysis.
Practical work
Subjects that incorporate hands-on learning and practical assessments often feel more accessible to students compared to purely theoretical examinations. When students can engage with real-world applications, create tangible projects, or demonstrate skills through practical work, they tend to perform better as these assessments align with different learning styles. Subjects like Art, Drama, or certain technology courses allow students to showcase their abilities through coursework and practical demonstrations rather than relying solely on written examinations under timed conditions.
Subjectivity
Examinations are significantly less challenging when they assess knowledge acquired during secondary education, such as essay composition and creative writing. Subjects that allow for subjective interpretation and personal expression often provide students with more flexibility in their responses, making it easier to demonstrate understanding. When topics included are interconnected and build upon familiar concepts from everyday learning, this further facilitates the examination process, as students can draw from their existing knowledge base and personal experiences.
High Pass Rates
The percentage of students who pass a given subject is a direct indicator of how easy that subject is considered to be - the higher the pass rate, the easier it is reckoned to be. The UK Department of Education analyses pass rate data to identify trends and patterns across different subjects. Subjects with consistently high pass rates indicate that the content, assessment methods, and grading criteria are generally more accessible to the average student, making them statistically "easier" options for those seeking to maximize their chances of achieving good grades.
Why are these subjects considered easier?
Students usually share their thoughts about subjects on forums and blogs, but their opinions are extremely varied, due to the sheer number of subjects available. Of course, nobody has taken all of them and, thus, can’t have an objective and comprehensive view on this matter.
Fortunately, the UK Department of Education not only regulates examination boards but also collects data from them. Based on the gathered data, they can spot trends and analyse metrics, which allows them to identify the easiest and most difficult GCSE subjects.
To establish the easiest and most difficult subjects, the Department of Education analyses:
- Pass Rate: The percentage of students who pass a given subject is a direct indicator of how easy that subject is considered to be. The higher the pass rate, the easier it is reckoned to be.
- Student’s skills: Based on students’ comments on forums and other parameters taken into account by exam boards, examinations are significantly less challenging when they assess knowledge acquired during secondary education, such as essay composition. Additionally, when the topics included are interconnected this further facilitates the examination process.
Aside from the difficulty of every subject, we highly recommend pondering how these choices will play out in your future. If you already have a plan in mind, the best is to research the requirements to enter your desired university or job and select your GCSEs in alignment with those aspirations.
Choosing GCSE subjects that provide you with the skills necessary to perform well in certain jobs is highly valued by employers, either as a young adult looking for their first job or as a mature student who wants to resit GCSEs for better working opportunities.
What are the easiest GCSEs to do in one year?
The truth is that there is no specific GCSE that is easier to do in one year than others. Instead, what matters the most, is your study strategy.
At CloudLearn, we have calculated the ideal study time that you should dedicate to each of your GCSEs in order to succeed, That is 120 total study hours per subject. Covering the entire syllabus and revising for that time will guarantee you pass your GCSEs. Just calculate and distribute those hours in one year and you will be able to pass your GCSEs with flying colours. If you are looking to get all 9s (or close) take a look at the following tips!
What are the hardest to easiest GCSE subjects?
According to AQA’s exam results for June 2025, these are the most difficult subjects based on pass rates (percentage of students achieving grade 4 or above) and excellence rates (percentage of students achieving grade 9). Based on this data, engineering is the most difficult subject, with the lowest pass and excellence rates overall.
| Subject | Overall Pass Rate (4 or above) | Percentage Achieving a 9 |
|---|---|---|
| Statistics | 40.8% | 9.7% |
| Urdu | 47.5% | 12.6% |
| Engineering | 48.5% | 2.4% |
| Punjabi | 52.0% | 5.9% |
| Spanish | 52.1% | 7.0% |
| French | 53.5% | 4.4% |
| German | 54.8% | 11.0% |
| Religious Studies B | 54.4% | 9.3% |
| Art & Design (Textiles) | 55.4% | 5.5% |
| Computer Science | 56.4% | 10.2% |
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How to get all 9 in GCSEs? 3 Tips to make GCSEs easier and ace the exams
Aside from choosing subjects with a high pass rate, there are also a few strategies that can help in making GCSEs easier.
Combining subjects with similar content
A very good approach is to select similar subjects. This way, you will be able to interconnect the topics you need to study and increase your chances of achieving good results. A good combination could be Biology, Chemistry and Physics, all Science-related. However, aim at finding the right balance. You don’t want to choose subjects which are redundant, such as Maths and Further Maths, as some universities may frown upon this.
Taking GCSEs privately
The traditional way to study for GCSEs is at school in group classes. However studying online can be a much better option for many, as it provides more flexibility.
It also allows students to study at their own pace, and from anywhere, and even fast-track courses, reducing the regular two-year study time to just a few months.
This can be done at private colleges, online academies or through homeschooling. Here we’ve elaborated a guide on how to take GCSE privately.
1:1 Tutoring
Studying on one’s own can sound challenging, as you need to be responsible and consistent with studying. However, experienced online colleges, such as CloudLearn, include 1:1 tutoring with an appointed tutor who can guide you along the process, explain topics in-depth and present studying techniques to ensure success.
Ready to excel in your GCSEs exams?
While our analysis reveals that achieving excellence in GCSEs requires genuine effort and dedication, the right preparation strategy can make all the difference. Whether you're aiming for grade 9 in challenging subjects like Engineering and Mathematics, or seeking to pass core subjects like English and Maths, success comes down to quality preparation, expert guidance, and consistent practice.
CloudLearn transforms GCSE preparation with:
- Flexible online learning that adapts to your schedule and learning style
- Unlimited expert tutor support to help you tackle even the most challenging subjects
- Comprehensive study materials covering all exam board requirements
- Transparent pricing with no hidden fees - courses from £299, exams from £270
- 100% pass guarantee ensuring your investment leads to results
- Fast-track options allowing you to study at your own pace
The statistics show that while some GCSEs are more challenging than others, every subject is achievable with the right approach. Don't let pass rates discourage you - instead, use them to inform your preparation strategy. With CloudLearn's proven methods and dedicated support, you'll have everything needed to not just pass your GCSEs, but achieve the grades that open doors to your future.
Start your GCSE success story today. Contact our student advisors to discover how CloudLearn can help you achieve your target grades with confidence and flexibility.
Frequently Asked Questions
What subject is the easiest in GCSE?
According to AQA’s result statistics over the years, the easiest subject in GCSE is Further Maths, as it has the highest pass rate among all other subjects (82.1 in June 2025). However, it is also true that difficulty is a very subjective variable, as students may find some subjects harder than others based on a number of factors.
Are GCSEs harder or easier now?
GCSEs are carefully crafted to be fair and equally difficult throughout the years. It is true, however, that students from 2020 to 2022 had it easier, as exigencies were lowered during and after the pandemic, but requirements have now returned to pre-pandemic times.
What are the most valued GCSE subjects?
The most valued GCSEs are Maths and English, as these are mandatory subjects based on the regulations set by the Ministry of Education. For this reason, they are an entry requirement to most (if not all) university courses. Aside from those, universities will analyse your GCSEs in context with your A-levels and other factors in your profile and also how related they are to the course you are aspiring to study. In conclusion, the most valued GCSEs will change depending on each student and their career prospects.
Exam board selection: Which exam board is the easiest for GCSEs?
Although the same subjects are offered by different examination boards, all of these are regulated by Ofqual, belonging to the UK’s Department of Education. This ensures that there are no significant differences between the options available, making all of them equally difficult.
Are GCSES hard?
GCSEs are manageable with the right approach and preparation! With pass rates ranging from 75.9% to 97.9%, the vast majority of students complete their GCSEs. While achieving top grades requires dedication, consistent study habits, and proper support, success is very achievable. Remember, you have two years to prepare, plenty of resources available, and flexible study options to suit your learning style.
What are the easiest gcse subjects to get 9?
Another variable that determines the easiest GCSE is the percentage of students achieving grade 9, and this too can vary from one year to another. In June 2025, the top 3 easiest GCSEs to achieve 9 were Chinese (Spoken Mandarin) (25.5%), Bengali (17.1%) and Further Mathematics (13.1%).
