The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is an academic qualification in a range of particular subjects, taken in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, having been introduced in September 1986, and its first exams sat in 1988. State schools in Scotland use the Scottish Qualifications Certificate instead.

The General Certificate of Secondary Education (GCSE) is a set of exams taken in England, Wales, Northern Ireland and other British territories. They are usually taken by students aged 15–16, after two years of study. Some students can take their exams early if their teachers think the students are capable.

The Certificate of Secondary Education (CSE) was developed so that students could take a formal exam, and receive a certificate that proved their level of education. CSEs were assessed by a combination of coursework and exams, and were available in both academic and vocational subjects.

The International General Certificate of Secondary Education is a set of examinations and qualifications designed for 14 to 16-year-olds, although they can be taken at any age. Borne out of the GCSE used in England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the IGCSE has evolved to meet the needs of students across the globe.