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Higher tier

The upper of two GCSE exam tiers, giving access to grades 9 to 4 (with an allowed 3) in England.

Used in
All four UK nations (details may differ)
Topic
Assessment

Being checked against official sources. This definition is written in our own words; always check the official guidance for your country.

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Foundation tier All four UK nations (details may differ)
The lower of two GCSE exam tiers, giving access to grades 5 to 1 in England (C to G in older and Welsh systems).
Tiered entry All four UK nations (details may differ)
Exams offered at two levels, foundation and higher, each giving access to a different range of grades; used in subjects such as GCSE maths, science and languages.

More terms: Assessment

Extra time · Flight path · Formative assessment · Levels of response · Linear qualification · Low-stakes quiz

More terms starting with H · Education glossary A–Z · Get a TIP for your class

Definitions are written by Classfern in our own words for teachers in the UK and the US. They are short explanations, not legal or official definitions: always check the official guidance for your country, nation or state. Classfern is not affiliated with or endorsed by any government department, inspectorate or exam board named here.