Retaking A-level exams in the UK can improve a student’s chances of getting into university, but it may also delay their application by up to a year and add to their stress. However, retaking exams can increase the chance of getting a better grade and is a good option if a student feels they haven’t achieved their potential. The questions are generally similar to the original exam, but retake exams are only available at certain times and may be overwhelming if taken at the same time as other exams.
Some of the professionals at the advanced level, that is, the A level, assume that the student has a chance of getting a better grade, and an increase in the grade generally makes acceptance to a university more likely. A major disadvantage, however, is that the student may have to delay their application for up to a year. There is also the chance that A-level retakes will occur at a similar time to other exams, which can add to the stress during this difficult time.
The main advantage of A-level retakes in the UK and other countries where the education system is based on the UK approach is that the student has a second chance to obtain a satisfactory grade. A-level results are the most important factor when universities decide who to accept, and even a single grade improvement can make a difference. If a student feels they haven’t gotten the grades they are capable of, a retake is usually a good option.
Given that the questions in A-level retakes are generally similar to the original exam, the chance of an improved result is generally high. The student will already understand the amount of work required to get a good grade and will know what questions are likely to come up. While the style and wording of questions may change, the skills and knowledge needed to answer them will not. This should give the student an advantage over those taking the exam for the first time.
However, there are several drawbacks to A-level retakes. Retake exams are only available at certain times; therefore, waiting for them will often delay a student’s application to a university by up to a year. If the student is repeating their first year A-level exams, the repetition will be at approximately the same time as the second year exams. This can overwhelm the student and reduce the preparation time available for the important second-year tests.
As A-level retakes are usually held during January or June, the student may not have studied the material for up to a year, especially if they are retaking their second year exams. That’s a long time to be away from a subject, and it can make it difficult to remember critical information. If the student has started a part-time job or other course at this time, finding time to review the subject can be difficult and stressful. A retake should only be considered if there is a high chance of an improved outcome.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
