Learners receive their GCSE and level 2 vocational qualification results today

Today (20 August 2026) is results day for thousands of learners across Wales receiving their GCSE and level 2 vocational qualification results.

Today marks an important milestone for learners as they receive the results of qualifications that will help shape their next steps, whether that's continuing their studies, beginning an apprenticeship, entering training, or moving into employment. 

Congratulating learners, Philip Blaker, Chief Executive of Qualifications Wales, said: 

"Congratulations to everyone receiving their results today, and well done for all the hard work, commitment and resilience you have shown throughout your studies. 

Receiving your results is an important milestone and a moment to reflect on everything you have achieved. For many learners, today will also be the start of planning the next stage of their education, training or career journey. 

Whatever your results, there are opportunities available to help you move forward. If your grades aren't what you were hoping for, don't worry. Your school or college can provide advice and guidance on the options available to you and help you decide on your next steps." 

Thanking those who have supported learners throughout the year, Philip added: 

"We'd like to thank everyone across the education and qualifications system who has supported learners throughout their studies. 

Thank you to all the dedicated teachers, lecturers, support staff, leaders, examiners who have supported learners to complete their qualifications."  

This year also marks continued progress in the transition to the new National 14-16 Qualifications, as some learners have received results in some units of the new GCSEs. These new GCSEs have been designed to meet the distinct needs of learners in Wales, evidencing the learning they have undertaken under the Curriculum for Wales.    

GCSE results 

• 289,506 GCSE grades were awarded this summer, down 5.7% compared to 2025  
• Grades were awarded to 46,335 learners in Wales this summer, compared to 58,740 in summer 2025  
• 275,000 GCSE grades were awarded to 16-year-old learners, down 0.5% compared to 2025  
• 19.6% of this year’s GCSE results are grade A/7 or above, 62.3% are grade C/4 or above and 96.8% are grade G/1 or above  

For 16-year-olds taking GCSEs graded A* to G:  

• 6.9% of results are A* grades, 19.9% of results are A* or A grades, 63.4% of results are grades A* to C and 97.0% of results are grades A* to G 

The full details of today's results are available on the Qualifications Wales website. There is also information about appeals, post-results services and support for learners as they consider their next steps.