helpyouchoose.org

FSMQs (Freestanding Mathematics Qualifications) are separate qualifications designed to recognise your ability to use your mathematical knowledge to make sense of and describe real world situations and to solve problems in maths. They are available at three different levels: Foundation, Intermediate and Advanced.

They are called Freestanding because they are not attached to any other qualification.

Each FSMQ unit:

• focuses on a particular area of maths
• takes 60 hours of guided learning
• Encourages you to use maths in your other studies, work and interests
• encourages you to use calculators and computers effectively
• is assessed by a coursework portfolio and written exam

FSMQs can now be taken alongside many different courses including GCSE and AS/A levels and many others. The choice of FSMQs will depend on your other studies and interests.

At Advanced level each FSMQ is equivalent to one AS or A level module. They can be studied individually or combined and extended to give the AS level: Use of Mathematics. Advanced Level FSMQs will add to your UCAS point score.

At Intermediate level each FSMQ is equivalent to the level required to achieve a grade in the range C - A* at GCSE.

At Foundation level each FSMQ is equivalent to the level required to achieve a grade in the range G - D at GCSE