GCSE Exam Timetable 2026 — Full Schedule
The GCSE exam period for 2026 runs from Monday 4 May to Friday 26 June 2026. Below is the complete timetable for core subjects across all major exam boards.
Key Dates at a Glance
- 📅 First exam: Monday, 4 May 2026
- 📅 Last exam: Friday, 26 June 2026
- ⚠️ Contingency day: Wednesday, 24 June 2026
- 🎯 Results Day: Thursday, 20 August 2026
You must remain available until the contingency day (24 June 2026) even if your last exam is earlier. Do not book holidays before this date.
Core Subject Exam Dates
| Subject | Paper | Date | Duration |
|---|---|---|---|
| Biology | Paper 1 | Tue, 12 May 2026 | 1h 45m |
| Mathematics | Paper 1 (Non-Calculator) | Thu, 14 May 2026 | 1h 30m |
| English Language | Paper 1 | Mon, 18 May 2026 | 1h 45m |
| Chemistry | Paper 1 | Wed, 20 May 2026 | 1h 45m |
| English Literature | Paper 1 | Fri, 22 May 2026 | 1h 45m |
| Physics | Paper 1 | Tue, 26 May 2026 | 1h 45m |
| Mathematics | Paper 2 (Calculator) | Wed, 3 Jun 2026 | 1h 30m |
| English Language | Paper 2 | Fri, 5 Jun 2026 | 1h 45m |
| Biology | Paper 2 | Mon, 8 Jun 2026 | 1h 45m |
| Mathematics | Paper 3 (Calculator) | Wed, 10 Jun 2026 | 1h 30m |
| Chemistry | Paper 2 | Fri, 12 Jun 2026 | 1h 45m |
| Physics | Paper 2 | Mon, 15 Jun 2026 | 1h 45m |
| English Literature | Paper 2 | Wed, 17 Jun 2026 | 1h 15m |
⚠️ These dates are indicative and may vary by exam board and tier. Always check your school-issued personal timetable for confirmed dates and times.
GCSE Exam Structure and Format 2026
Most GCSE subjects are assessed entirely by written exams (100% exam-based) since the removal of controlled assessments. However, some subjects retain a practical or coursework element:
- Art and Design: Portfolio (60%) + Externally set task (40%)
- Physical Education: Written exams (60%) + Practical (40%)
- Computer Science: Written exams (100%), but includes a programming project for learning purposes
- Design and Technology: Written exam (50%) + Non-exam assessment (50%)
For full subject details, visit our GCSE subjects guide.
What Calculator Is Allowed in GCSE Maths?
For GCSE Maths Papers 2 and 3 (calculator papers), you need a scientific calculator. The most commonly used models are the Casio fx-83GT CW and Casio fx-85GT CW. Graphing calculators are generally not permitted. Check with your exam board and school for the specific approved list.
Frequently Asked Questions
The GCSE exam period begins on Monday 4 May 2026 and runs until Friday 26 June 2026.
The contingency day is Wednesday 24 June 2026. Students must remain available on this date in case any exam needs to be rescheduled nationally due to disruption.
Most GCSE exam papers last between 1 hour and 2 hours. Some subjects like English Language have a 1 hour 45 minute paper, while Maths papers are 1 hour 30 minutes each.