Everything you need to know about GCSE exam resits - dates and how to apply

24 August 2023 , 09:05

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Students received their GCSE results today (Image: PA)

Students across the UK received their school subject grades today for GCSE Results Day - but those disappointed with their marks can resit their exams.

The majority of colleges, including some sixth forms, allow pupils to take exams again while still studying for A-Levels or other further education certificates. Tests for Maths and English are typically held in November and January, in addition to the traditional spring schedule.

But there is often no requirement for teenagers to retake exams in other subjects, even if do disastrously on some occasions, depending on what they want to do after school. It isn't essential to get a top grade in some subjects which aren't compulsory, such as French or Geography, for example. If you want to take these at A-Level though, you are often required to achieve a certain grade, usually a level 4.

The deadline to submit a request to resit any subject is Wednesday October 4, 2023, by which time it is likely you'll have started further education anyway. Resit exams in English and Mathematics are scheduled for November this year and students will get results of these in early January, as they prepare for AS Level exams typically held in the spring months.

You are advised to talk to your college or school to coordinate the assessment if you're sure you want a retake, regardless of the subject.

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If you are a private candidate, you will be responsible for organising your exam yourself. This would be the case if you decided not to complete further education. You will be required to contact local colleges and schools to see if you can sit the exam at their facility as a private candidate. In that situation, there'll be a fee to pay to the school or college so it can facilitate it.

It's important to note that exam topics may change and so, during revision for the retake, research the current syllabus. That can be done online, or by liaising with the school or college you're attending.

If you're considering university, post-college or school, consider some may not accept resit marks as part of the application. They may only take them into account under certain circumstances, so research your desired universities carefully upon deciding to resit anything.

Bradley Jolly