Anyone who did not receive the expected A-level results would feel disappointed. You should let yourself feel the disappointment, but do not let it rule your life. Not everything is lost, and you have options that could reverse the result and allow you to enter university.
What to do when you do not like the results?
One of the things you can do is contact your school and inquire about the options available to you. At this point, you can opt to see your examination paper, request a review, or resit your A Level exams. You can request for a priority copy of the marked examination paper to help you decide whether you need to ask for a clerical recheck or marking review. If you already have a pending university place, choose a priority review of marking.
When you request a review marking, you should understand that your grade could go lower, be confirmed, or be raised. Your school or college will ask you to give a written consent before requesting the review in your stead. Only the examination officer can request for the review, which they will send to your school or college. They, in turn, will send the review’s outcome to you.
However, you should also understand that the college/school might charge an admin fee aside from the review fee. A priority review of marking usually takes 15 calendar days, while a regular marking review takes about 20 calendar days.
Retaking A Levels
If you decide to retake A Levels to improve your test results, you should speak to your school so you can get all the necessary information you need about a resit. Otherwise, look at these options.
Clearing. If your marks do not fit the requirements of your first or second choice at university, consider registering for the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) clearing. You can apply for clearing when you did not receive any school offers or do not like the offer. You can likewise use it if you did not meet the conditions of the offers sent to you.
Take a gap year. You might consider a gap year, which you can spend gaining new skills and experiences, including work experience. A gap year can help you think of what you want to do. It is a good option if you believe you are not yet ready for university life.
Resitting. Your other option is to resit your A Levels if you believe you can do well this time. But you should understand that the administrative cost of retaking A Level exams is high. Likewise, there is no assurance that you will get the desired results. So if you want something cheaper, take the exams at your old exam centre or college.
While retaking A Level exams might allow you to enter university, ensure that the learning institution accepts A Level re-takers. In addition, consider other colleges or universities that do not have high requirements or possibly change your course.
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