GCSE and A-Level exam resits 2024 – what are they and what you need to know.
7th August, 2024
With GCSE and A-Level results just around the corner (A-Levels on 15th August, GCSEs on 22nd August, and CIE on 13th August), it’s time to start planning your next steps. Whether you didn’t achieve the grades you were hoping for or need a specific grade to qualify for further study, resitting one or multiple exams may be a viable option.
At Enjoy Education, we guide numerous students through the resit process each year, from catching up on the curriculum to getting exam-ready and arranging the exams.
What are resits?
Resits give you an opportunity to re-take an exam if you didn’t achieve what you wanted to. You can resit any GCSE or A Level exam in the following Summer after you have taken your exam.
If you would like to resit GCSE Maths or English, you will also have the opportunity to do this in the Autumn term.
After you resit your exam, you will retain your best grade. This means you cannot achieve a lower grade than the one you already hold.
Exam Resit Timelines for 2024
GCSE Resits: Held in November and the summer term.
A-Level Resits: Primarily scheduled for the summer, with some options in October and January. Confirm specific dates with your school or exam centre to ensure you are prepared
Key Differences: GCSE vs. A-Level Resits
GCSE Resits: Typically required for students who do not achieve a grade 4 in essential subjects like Maths and English, ensuring they meet the competency levels necessary for further education and career paths.
A-Level Resits: Generally voluntary and often pursued to meet university entry requirements or enhance career opportunities. Unlike the modular system, A-Level exams are now linear, requiring students to retake the entire exam rather than individual modules.
I’m thinking about resitting an exam: what do I need to consider?
If you’re contemplating resitting one or more subjects, consider how to prepare to maximize your potential. For example, if you’re taking a gap year between Year 13 and university, plan how to balance studying with work or travel. If you’re entering Year 12 and want to resit a GCSE, think about managing this alongside new studies.
Consult your teachers or tutors to understand any changes in the exam format or content for the next year. Some universities only accept resit marks under specific conditions, so check with your desired institutions before deciding to resit.
How do I arrange to resit an exam?
You can usually arrange a resit through your school or college, or you can choose to resit through Enjoy Education privately.
Our expert team are on hand to arrange the full process for you, from arranging academic support to get you up to speed with the curriculum, through to organising your exam resit and any access needs. We work with lots of students with special educational needs or complicated extenuating circumstances to arrange private resit exams; if you feel this might be you, please don’t hesitate to reach out for advice on how we can help you make your resit a success.
What are the benefits of taking a resit?
Resitting exams can be a pivotal decision, offering a chance to improve grades, meet university requirements, and demonstrate resilience. While resits require a commitment of time, effort, and potentially financial resources, they offer an invaluable opportunity for academic and personal growth. It’s essential to weigh these factors carefully and consult with educators and family to make an informed choice.
What are my other options?
If you have just taken your A Levels and would like to go to University in the UK, but missed your grades, you may want to consider UCAS Clearing.
Clearing is a great way to secure a place on some fantastic courses across the country. Read more about the process in detail here.
If you believe you did much better on an exam than your grade reflects, you may also want to consider requesting a re-mark. This means that an examiner will reassess your paper and give you a new grade. This is a good option if you’re only a few marks from the grade boundary. Do remember that re-marked grades can go down as well as up, so do speak to your teacher or tutor for advice before choosing this option.
How do I prepare for resits?
Identify Gaps: Work with a tutor to pinpoint areas that need improvement.
Practice: Use past papers to familiarise yourself with exam formats and question types.
Get Help: Utilise school resources, online platforms, and tutoring services.
Plan: Create a study schedule prioritising weaker subjects.
Update: Stay informed about syllabus changes and exam format updates.
If you have any questions or concerns about your results at all, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team – we are here to support you along the entire journey.
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