The government will on Tuesday announce an overhaul of the GCSE system, outlining plans to introduce a new grading system between one and eight and to shift emphasis away from coursework, the BBC reported.
A grade eight will replace the current A* as the best grade with scope for adding new numbers if required, according to the report.
In sweeping reforms due to take effect in 2015, coursework will be phased out except in science, which will retain practical examinations.
The changes are due to be outlined in two reports presented on Tuesday.
However, there is no sign that the new examinations will be called I-Levels, as previously reported, according to the BBC.
The changes are due to apply to English, maths, physics, chemistry, biology, double science, history and geography with remaining subjects following suit.
GCSE overhaul to be unveiled: report
