GCSE History is an untiered GCSE, so every student sits the same two papers and can be awarded any grade from 1 to 9. This guide covers what the exam involves, how grades work, the resit dates and where to practise.
What the GCSE History exam involves
Under the AQA specification (8145), GCSE History is assessed in two papers, both taken at the end of the course. Each paper lasts 2 hours and is worth 84 marks, including 4 marks for spelling, punctuation and grammar. Each paper counts for half of the final grade. Most exam boards use a similar structure, but check the specification your school follows.
- Paper 1: understanding the modern world, 2 hours, 84 marks (50 percent of the grade)
- Paper 2: shaping the nation, 2 hours, 84 marks (50 percent of the grade)
Questions ask you to explain and judge using evidence from the sources and from your own knowledge, so practise writing extended answers with a clear argument.
Tiers and grades
GCSE History is untiered, so there is no foundation or higher tier to choose. Every student sits the same papers and can reach any grade from 1 to 9. Grade 4 is a standard pass and grade 5 is a strong pass.
Resit and key dates
- Summer 2027: exams run in May and June 2027, with results in August 2027. Read the summer 2027 resit guide.
- Is GCSE History tiered? Read the tiers answer.
Check with your school or exam board for the exact timetable and whether any earlier series is available, as dates can change.
Free practice
Last updated 3 November 2026.