How Do I Retake My A-Levels?
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How Do I Retake My A-Levels?#
Have you recently received your A-Level results and found that they don’t quite match your expectations? Perhaps you were aiming for straight As but fell short, or you have your heart set on attending your dream university but your current grades don’t meet the entry requirements. If this sounds familiar, resitting your A-Levels might be the best path forward for you.
Every year, many students ask, “How do I retake my A-Levels?”—so you’re definitely not alone. Retaking A-Levels is a common choice for students who want to improve their level grades, and it can open doors to higher education opportunities that were previously out of reach. Many students choose to retake A-Levels specifically to achieve a better grade, which can lead to broader higher education options and improved university prospects. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the entire process of retaking your A-Levels, answer your key questions, and provide useful tips to help you succeed.
Introduction to Retaking A-Levels#
Retaking A-Levels can feel overwhelming, especially if you didn’t achieve the grades you hoped for on your first attempt. However, choosing to retake your A-Levels is often a valuable experience that can set you on the path to greater academic and professional success. Whether you’re aiming to meet the entry requirements for your dream university, switch to a specific course, or simply want to prove to yourself what you’re capable of, retaking A-Levels gives you a second chance to reach your goals.
With the right mindset and a clear plan, retaking A-Levels can help you build a stronger foundation for your future, boost your confidence, and open up new opportunities that may not have been available before. Many students find that the process of retaking A-Levels not only improves their grades but also teaches them resilience, determination, and valuable study skills that benefit them throughout their education and career.
Why Should You Consider Retaking Your A-Levels?#
If you’re unsure about your A-Level results, it’s worth considering whether retaking one or more subjects could benefit you. There are several advantages and disadvantages to weigh before making your decision.
One potential downside is that you may end up a year behind your peers. Some students also find that the social experience and living arrangements while retaking are less enjoyable compared to the previous year.
What Are the Advantages of Retaking A-Levels?#
One of the main reasons to resit your A-Levels is the opportunity to improve your grades. By dedicating another year to study, you can aim for a higher grade, especially if personal circumstances previously affected your performance. Achieving the right grades can open up more options for higher education, including admission to Russell Group universities or degree apprenticeships in your preferred field. Retaking A-Levels can also help you meet the entry requirements for a specific career you wish to pursue, ensuring your qualifications align with your professional aspirations.
Retaking your A-Levels also allows you to work part-time alongside your studies, helping you save money for tuition fees and university life. If you’re only resitting one or two subjects, you may have more free time to gain valuable work experience or internships, which can clarify your career goals and strengthen your university application.
What Are the Disadvantages of Retaking A-Levels?#
However, there are some potential downsides. There’s always a risk that your grades may remain the same or even be lower than your first attempt. Additionally, retaking your A-Levels means you’ll be a year behind your peers who move straight on to university, which can feel isolating.
You might also have to live at home for an extra year if you had planned to move out for university, which can be disappointing. Lastly, retaking exams involves exam fees and possibly tuition fees, so you should carefully consider whether the financial cost is worth it compared to other routes like clearing.
Eligibility and Requirements#
Anyone interested in retaking A-Levels should first check the eligibility criteria and requirements set by their chosen school, sixth form, or college. While most institutions allow students of any age or previous grade to retake A-Levels, some sixth form colleges may have specific entry requirements or restrictions, such as minimum grade thresholds or limits on the number of times you can retake a subject. It’s important to research these details early and plan ahead, as exam timetables, application deadlines, and available subjects can vary depending on the institution.
Additionally, students should factor in the costs involved—exam fees, course fees, and tuition fees can differ widely between schools, colleges, and private providers. Understanding these requirements and costs will help you make informed decisions about where and how to retake your A-Levels, ensuring you’re fully prepared for the process and any impact it may have on your university application or future plans.
Can I Retake My A-Levels?#
The good news is that anyone can retake their A-Levels, regardless of age or previous results. Mature students who left school years ago are also eligible to retake A-Levels, and many schools and colleges offer opportunities for level students to resit their exams. Whether you’re a current sixth form student or a mature student who left school years ago, you have options. Many sixth form colleges and independent colleges accept private candidates for A-Level resits. It’s important to research local schools, colleges, or private exam centres that offer the subjects you want to retake.
When Can I Retake My A-Levels?#
A-Level resits are only available during the summer exam season, so you’ll need to plan ahead and spend an additional year preparing for the exams. When retaking A-Levels, students are required to sit the entire exam for each subject, rather than just retaking individual papers. Unlike GCSE Maths and English, which can be retaken in November, A-Level exams do not have a November resit option.
A Level Results and Rechecking#
When you receive your A-Level results, it’s natural to feel anxious—especially if your grades are just shy of what you need for your next steps. In some cases, you might consider having your exam papers rechecked by the exam board. This process, sometimes called a review of marking, allows you to request a re-evaluation of your exam to see if a higher grade is possible. Before deciding, it’s wise to consult with your teachers, a personal tutor, or your school’s exams officer to assess whether a recheck is likely to be beneficial. Be aware that there are deadlines for submitting recheck requests, and there may be fees involved. While a successful recheck can improve your A-Level results and potentially secure your place at university, there is also a risk that your grade could stay the same or even be lowered. Carefully weigh the pros and cons, and consider how a recheck might affect your university application or future academic plans before proceeding.
How Do I Resit My A-Levels?#
To start the process, contact your current school, college, or sixth form to find out how to re-enroll or register as a private candidate. The deadline for summer exam entries is usually around February, so make sure you check your exam centre’s timetable and register on time. It is also important to check exam boards' timetables and registration deadlines to ensure you are properly prepared.
You don’t necessarily have to retake your A-Levels at the same school or college. Some students choose to study independently or with private tutors and then sit their exams at a local exam centre as private candidates. If you choose this route, contact local exam centres well in advance to secure your place. This option offers flexibility but requires strong self-discipline and potentially additional tuition fees.
At the end of your planning, remember to compare exam fees and availability across multiple exam centres to find the best option for your needs.
What Options Do I Have For Retaking My A-Levels?#
There are several routes to retaking your A-Levels:
Re-enroll at your current school or sixth form college: You might attend classes for the entire year or just take the exams, benefiting from structured teaching and tutor support. Attending classes with other students can provide a supportive and structured learning environment.
Study with private tutors or online courses: This option allows you to learn at your own pace, often with personalised tutor support. There are a variety of level courses available, including both online and in-person options. Many students choose to study online for their A-Levels, which offers flexibility and the ability to receive tailored support.
Register as a private candidate: You can study independently and enter exams at a local exam centre that accepts private candidates, without being enrolled in a college. This is a good option if you prefer to study on your own schedule without attending classes.
Some private colleges and institutions offer dedicated level resit courses and level resit course packages. These level resit courses provide structured support, learning materials, and tutoring to help students improve their exam results.
A-Levels Online and Distance Learning#
Online learning has transformed the way students can retake their A-Levels, offering flexible and accessible options for those who prefer to study outside of a traditional classroom. With a wide range of online courses available, you can tailor your studies to fit your schedule, learning style, and academic needs. Many online providers offer comprehensive tutor support, access to past papers, and interactive resources to help you prepare for your exams at your own pace.
Tuition fees for online courses can be more affordable than those at private colleges, but it’s important to choose a course that is accredited and recognised by your chosen exam board. Online learning is ideal for students who want to balance their studies with work or other commitments, or who simply prefer the independence of studying from home. By selecting the right online course, you can retake your A-Levels in a way that suits your lifestyle and maximises your chances of exam success.
Carry Forward and Retake Policies#
Understanding the carry forward and retake policies for A-Levels is essential for anyone planning to improve their grades. In some cases, you may be able to carry forward marks from coursework or specific assessments from your previous attempt, reducing the amount of work required when retaking A-Levels. However, these policies can vary depending on the exam board and the subject, so it’s important to check the specific rules before making any decisions. There may also be limits on how many times you can retake a particular exam, as well as deadlines for registering your intent to carry forward marks.
If you’re studying through online courses or as a private candidate, make sure you understand how these policies apply to your situation. By familiarising yourself with the carry forward and retake options, you can plan your studies more effectively, minimise unnecessary stress, and give yourself the best possible chance of achieving your desired grades and securing a place at your chosen university.
Challenges and Myths Surrounding A-Level Resits#
Many students worry about how retaking A-Levels might affect their university application or feel uncertain about the process. For those who choose to re sit their A-Levels, there are a range of options, exam centres, and support available to help them succeed. Let’s clear up some common misconceptions.
Does Resitting My A-Levels Impact My University Application?#
When you retake your A-Levels, you’ll need to reapply through UCAS, updating your predicted grades and personal statement. Most universities in the UK accept students who have retaken their A Levels, provided they explain their circumstances in their application, especially if they achieve the required grades. However, some top universities and competitive courses like medicine may prefer applicants who achieved the right grades on their first attempt.
If you have personal circumstances that affected your first attempt, be sure to communicate this in your application. Contact your preferred university’s admissions office to understand their policies on A-Level resits.
Five Misconceptions About A-Level Retakes#
You’ll just get the same grades again: Not necessarily. With effective study and practice, many students improve their results.
You’ll delay your academic journey: Many students take gap years or start university later; university cohorts include a wide range of ages.
You’ll suffer from stigma: Once at university, your degree holds more value than your A-Level results, and most peers won’t focus on your exam history.
You can only resit once: You can usually resit A-Level exams multiple times, but confirm with your exam board.
You’ll feel alone or like a failure: Many students retake exams and go on to succeed. Use your year wisely and stay motivated.
Retaking your A-Levels can feel like a setback, but it often opens up new opportunities for higher education and career paths. Whether you choose to study at a local school, sixth form college, private college, or online, planning ahead and using the right resources will help you achieve the higher grade you need for your dream university and future success.
If university isn’t the right path for you, consider exploring other higher education providers or degree apprenticeships as alternative routes to a fulfilling career. Remember, your university degree and future achievements matter far more than the timing of your A-Level success.
If university isn’t for you, explore other higher education providers in the UK here
