Wondering if you can retake A Levels? Well, the answer is a resounding yes!
Whether your initial results weren’t what you hoped for, or you simply want to improve your grades, retaking A Levels is a common and accessible option. It’s a chance to revisit the material, boost your marks and enhance your prospects.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about retaking A Levels. We’ll cover the steps involved, what you can expect to pay, and how it might impact your university applications.
Let’s get started.
Table of Contents
Can you retake A Levels?
Yes, absolutely. Retaking A Levels is a common option for anyone looking to improve their grades. So if your results didn’t quite hit the mark, don’t worry. Many students choose to retake their exams each year. Retaking can provide a fresh perspective on your subjects, help you gain a deeper understanding and ultimately achieve the grades you’re aiming for.
Here’s a quick step-by-step guide on how to retake your A Levels.
1. Making the decision
First, weigh your options to decide if retaking your A Levels is the best choice. Consider what grades you need for your career or university plans, and think about how retaking fits with your current life, including any jobs, hobbies or other commitments.
It’s important to be realistic about the time and effort retaking will require and whether you’re ready to invest in that process.
2. Picking your path
Next, choose where and how you want to retake your A Levels.
You’ve got two main options. You can return to your previous school or college for a structured environment and access to teachers. Alternatively, you can register as a private candidate, which offers more flexibility – ideal if you’re comfortable studying on your own.
Consider what kind of support system you need and what will work best for your learning style.
3. Registering for exams
If you’re not going back to your old school, you’ll need to register as a private candidate at an approved exam centre. Make sure to do this well before the registration deadlines, as there are often fees and paperwork involved.
Double-check your centre offers the exams (and exam boards) you need, so there are no last-minute surprises.
4. Planning your preparation
Start your revision as early as possible and create a comprehensive study plan. Techniques like time-blocking can help you manage your time effectively, ensuring you cover all necessary material.
As part of this, focus not only on subjects where you did well but also on areas where you struggled. Use a variety of resources, such as past papers, online tutorials and textbooks, and consider hiring a tutor or academic coach for extra guidance.
For more advice, don’t miss How to get all A*s at A Level, as well as our subject-specific A Level guides:
5. Staying up-to-date
Keep yourself informed about any updates or changes in the exam specification or format, as these differ from year to year. Download the most recent specifications and mark schemes from your exam board’s website.
If there are any changes from the last time you sat exams, adjust your study plan accordingly.
6. Approaching exam day
When exam day arrives, stay calm and confident. You’ve prepared thoroughly, so trust in your knowledge and abilities.
Try to view A Level retakes as an opportunity to showcase everything you’ve learned, rather than a daunting challenge. Techniques like deep breathing, positive visualisation and adopting a “growth mindset” can help you stay focused and reduce anxiety.
Looking for that extra push? Here are our top tips for acing your exams.
7. Evaluating results and plans
Once results are released, take the time to reflect on your performance. Whether you’ve met your goals or still have work to do, consider your next steps carefully. This might include applying to universities, exploring different career paths or considering additional qualifications.
If you aren’t heading to university, read our in-depth guide on your options. From professional qualifications to work experience, volunteering and gap years, there’s a world out there to explore.
Is it common to fail A Levels?
A fail at A Level (resulting in an “unclassified” grade) is relatively rare. In the latest government statistics, the A Level pass rate was 97.3%. This means only 2.7% of A Level entries were “fails”.
You’ve technically passed your A Levels if you get a grade of an A*, A, B, C, D or E.
However, many students think of C or higher as a pass. In 2023, only 75.4% of students achieved A* to C grades. So this means 25.6% of students secured a D grade or lower.
So you’re not alone if you’ve struggled. A Levels are challenging. They’re designed to push you after all!
And if you’re wondering what the hardest A Levels are, here are the top ten most difficult subjects ranked.
Is my life over if I fail A levels?
First off, no. Your life is not over if you fail your A Levels.
If you didn’t pass some of your A Levels, don’t worry. There are plenty of options. Besides retakes, you can explore professional courses (for instance, accounting qualifications) offering practical skills in your field of interest. These can lead straight into a rewarding career.
But if you’re aiming for university and missed the grades you needed, check out UCAS Clearing. It helps you find university courses with available spots, and lots of students find great programs this way.
Most universities also only ask for three A Level grades. For instance “AAA” or “AAB”. So if you’ve taken four A Levels, it won’t matter so much if one subject falls short.
You can also consider apprenticeships, which let you earn while you learn on the job, or vocational qualifications like BTECs that focus on specific skills. These can be great for jumping into the workforce or moving on to further study.
For more personalised advice, talking to an early careers coach can be super helpful. They’ll guide you through your options and help you figure out the best next steps. Remember, not hitting your target grades isn’t the end of the road – there are lots of ways to reach your goals!
How much does it cost to retake your A Levels?
The cost of retaking A Levels varies substantially. But you’ll normally have to pay something.
If you choose to retake your exams as a private candidate, expect to pay between £100 and £400 per subject, depending on the exam centre. These costs cover exam entry and administrative fees.
If you return to your previous school or college, the fees might be lower, especially if you’re a recent graduate. Some schools and colleges might offer free retakes, but this is rare.
If money is a barrier to retaking your A Levels, it’s worth contacting your school or local education authority. They’ll advise on financial aid or grants which may be available for students meeting criteria such as financial need.
Can you retake A Levels by yourself?
Yes. Retaking A Levels by yourself is known as sitting exams as a “private candidate”. It’s a great option if you prefer to study independently or you’ve followed a homeschooling path.
Retaking A Levels as a private candidate involves finding an appropriate exam centre and taking responsibility for your study schedule. It’s a flexible approach, letting you focus on subjects at your own pace.
Self-studying can be particularly beneficial if you’re disciplined and motivated. There are plenty of online resources, including video tutorials, past exam papers and study guides to help you along the way.
However, if you find it challenging to stay on track, help from an academic coach or joining a study group could give you the expert advice and peer support you need.
Do unis know if you resit your A Levels?
Yes, universities are aware if you’ve resat your A Levels. Your exam results show the year each subject was taken, including any retakes. This information is part of your academic record and is visible to university admissions teams.
Do universities accept retake A Levels?
Yes, universities accept retake A Levels. As long as you meet the required grades for your course, retaking exams shouldn’t be a barrier. Many universities understand students may need a second chance to achieve their desired results, and they don’t usually penalise applicants for retakes.
Retaking A Levels can demonstrate resilience and determination – qualities admissions officers often admire.
So in short, don’t worry! Just be honest in your application and use your personal statement to explain what you’ve learned from your A Level retakes experience.
Can you still go to uni if you fail your A Levels?
Yes, you can still go to university if you fail some of your A Levels. Even if your A Level results aren’t what you expected, you still have plenty of options for higher education.
Here are a few pathways to consider.
- UCAS Clearing: Helping you find university courses that still have available spots after results day. Many students find great opportunities through Clearing, even if their initial plans didn’t work out.
- Foundation or Access Courses: These programs offer an alternative route to university. They typically have lower entry requirements and provide the necessary skills and knowledge to progress to a full degree program.
- Vocational Courses: If you’re looking for a more hands-on approach, vocational courses can be an excellent choice. They focus on practical skills and can lead directly to specific careers or later university study.
- Degree Apprenticeships: These combine work experience with university study, letting you earn while you learn. Degree apprenticeships can be a great way to gain qualifications and enter the workforce with practical skills.
Is retaking your A Levels worth it?
In our opinion, yes. Retaking your A Levels can be a rewarding decision, especially if you’re determined to achieve specific academic or career goals. It provides a chance to improve your grades, deepen your understanding of your subjects and show resilience. This experience can be incredibly valuable not just academically, but personally too.
If you’re thinking about retaking your A Levels, we can help. Our specialist academic coaches are here to support you, offering personalised guidance on study strategies, exam preparation and more. So if you’re ready to turn your grades around, contact us today. Let’s start your journey towards academic success.
