About FSMQs

What are Free-Standing Mathematics Qualifications (FSMQs)?

FSMQs are part of the National Qualifications Framework in England and have been around for over 10 years. They allowed for curricular innovation in mathematics outside the traditional GCSEs, AS and A-levels (hence the Free-Standing). FSMQs are available on several mathematical and statistical topics. A typical FSMQ requires 60 guided learning hours.
There is a growing body of research on the value of FSMQs.

Who are FSMQs for?

FSMQs are designed to appeal to all post-16 students but can be suitable for students across a wider age-range. The choice of FSMQs will depend on a student's other studies/interests, aptitude and preparation.

Technical Note: The Use of Mathematics FSMQs are accredited by Ofqual for all age groups, but are approved on section 96 only for ages 16–18 and 18+. This means that, currently, they may not be provided to pre-16 students in maintained schools (all other schools and colleges are allowed to use these qualifications), that funding is available only for the age ranges 16–18 and 18+ and that there are currently no performance measures available at these levels.

What FSMQs are available?

FSMQs are available at three levels:
Level 1 (Foundation), Level 2 (Intermediate/Higher), and Level 3 (Advanced).
They are offered by two awarding bodies, AQA and OCR.

AQA FSMQs are available at all three levels and support applying mathematics and statistics across a range of subjects. Each FSMQ focuses on a particular area of mathematics ( such as Finance, Shape and Space, Statistics, and Calculus). They can be taken separately, or certain combinations can build to broader Level 2/3 qualifications in the Use of Mathematics. For more information about the AQA FSMQs see the AQA website: AQA FSMQs.

OCR FSMQs provide access and an introduction to the mathematics studied in AS and A-level mathematics. Foundations of Advanced Mathematics (developed with and supported by MEI) is an Intermediate Level FSMQ. Additional Mathematics is an Advanced Level FSMQ. For more information about the OCR FSMQs see the OCR website: OCR FSMQs.

Do FSMQs carry UCAS points?

At Advanced Level each FSMQ carries UCAS points, and is notionally equivalent to one AS or A-level module or one unit of a Vocational A-level. For further detail see the awarding body websites.

Note that the resources on this FSMA website were developed to support the Use of Mathematics FSMQs.