FAQ
Functional Skills exam FAQ
The assessment, results and resit guidance below describes Pearson Edexcel Functional Skills, not every awarding organisation. Requirements and available exam formats can vary. Confirm your exact qualification, level and arrangements with your provider or awarding organisation.
Which subjects and levels can I prepare for?
Our site covers English and Maths at Entry Level 1, Entry Level 2, Entry Level 3, Level 1 and Level 2. Pearson offers Functional Skills at these five levels. Before choosing, ask your employer, admissions team or training provider which qualification and level they accept.
How are Pearson Functional Skills assessments taken?
Pearson’s English and Maths Entry Level assessments are internally assessed and externally verified. At Levels 1 and 2, Pearson offers paper-based and onscreen assessments. Remote invigilation is available through centres approved by Pearson to offer it; it is not automatically available for every booking. Ask your provider which format and arrangements apply to you.
What do I need to pass Pearson Level 1 or 2 English?
Pearson English has Reading, Writing, and Speaking, Listening and Communicating components. Pearson requires a Pass in all three for the full qualification. Speaking and listening is assessed by your teacher; Reading and Writing use paper-based exams or onscreen tests. Passed components can be carried forward if you need to resit another component.
When will I receive my Pearson result?
Pearson’s Functional Skills FAQ states that results for its external assessments take a maximum of 20 working days. Ask your provider when to expect your particular result and how they will share it with you. This is Pearson’s published timeline, not a promise for every awarding organisation.
Can I resit a Pearson Functional Skills assessment?
Pearson allows resits as often as needed, with a new entry each time at Levels 1 and 2. For Pearson Entry Level, its FAQ says an alternative assessment may be taken after a gap of at least 14 days. Your provider may charge for another attempt; confirm the cost, preparation and booking arrangements with them.
Is there one fixed Pearson pass percentage?
No. Pearson says the pass mark is not the same for every paper: its senior examiners set pass marks for each series, taking the standards and learner performance into account. Use the guidance for your exact assessment rather than assuming a universal percentage.
Does choosing a resource register me for an exam?
No. Resources, course enrolment and exam registration are separate actions. Check exam fees, dates, requirements and available formats with the exam provider. To enquire about registration, visit Private Exam Centre’s Functional Skills registration page. Buying a resource does not book an exam or guarantee a result.
Pearson-specific guidance is clearly identified above. Confirm the current requirements and arrangements with your exam provider.
Practical questions
Will a Functional Skills qualification be accepted?
Acceptance depends on the employer, course or provider and its specific rules. Check the exact qualification, subject and level with them before making plans.
Where can I check exam arrangements?
Ask an exam provider directly about its current arrangements, eligibility, fees and registration process. View Private Exam Centre Functional Skills information.
Can I get help choosing a resource?
For help with resources, visit resource help or call 08007723464. Resource help is not course enrolment or exam registration.
Requirements and exam-provider arrangements can change and vary by organisation. Verify details with the relevant organisation before purchasing resources, enrolling on a course or registering for an exam.