Everyone at MEI is delighted to see continued growth in entries for Core Maths qualifications. Core Maths provides an opportunity for students who achieve grade 4 or above in GCSE Mathematics to continue developing their mathematical skills after age 16, helping them apply mathematics confidently in education, employment and everyday life.
Level 3 results 2026
Summaries of entries and results
MEI has produced summaries of entries and results for AS and A level Mathematics and Further Mathematics, as well as Core Maths qualifications.
Compare entries and achievement year on year:
Core Maths complements a wide range of A levels, technical and vocational programmes, enabling students to develop their understanding of statistics, financial mathematics and quantitative reasoning in real-world contexts.
Charlie Stripp, Chief Executive of MEI, said:
It’s great to see continuing increases Core Maths numbers. However, many young people who would benefit from taking Core Maths cannot access it because it is not available in their school or college.
Core Maths equips young people to understand data, make sense of personal finances and apply maths to support future studies and employment. Universities are increasingly recognising its value.
All post-16 students who have a grade 4 or higher in GCSE Mathematics would benefit from taking Core Maths alongside three A levels or a technical or vocational programme. Core Maths complements students’ other subjects and helps provide a balanced post-16 programme of study.
Now, more than ever, we want students to be able to make informed judgements about quantitative information. Core Maths helps them develop the knowledge, skills and confidence needed to make sense of the world as informed citizens.
Charlie Stripp
Chief Executive, MEI
The continued increase in Core Maths participation is encouraging, demonstrating growing recognition of the importance of mathematical and statistical literacy beyond GCSE.
Yet many students still do not have the opportunity to study Core Maths, despite its relevance to courses and careers including the social sciences, business, health, geography, psychology and many technical professions. Expanding access remains an important priority if more young people are to benefit from continued mathematical study after age 16.
Increasing participation in Core Maths also supports wider ambitions to improve quantitative skills across society, ensuring that more young people leave education able to interpret data, evaluate evidence and make informed decisions in a world where numerical information plays an ever greater role.
Schools and colleges can access the financial support they need to offer Core Maths through the government’s £900 per student Core Maths funding premium.
The Advanced Mathematics Support Programme (AMSP), led by MEI, provides free support for state-funded schools and colleges, including:
- Professional development for teachers
- Teaching and learning resources
- Student enrichment opportunities
- Guidance on establishing and growing Core Maths provision
Schools and colleges interested in offering Core Maths, or expanding their existing provision, can access support through the AMSP and MEI. To find out more about Core Maths and the support available, please contact MEI.