A Level Resits: What You Need to Know

If results day didn't go as planned, you're likely asking "Should I resit?" and "What will universities think?". This isn't a time for panic; it's a time for a clear plan to move forward with confidence.

Deciding whether to retake A-levels is a calculated decision that balances three key factors:

• The reward: Getting into your first-choice university.

• The cost: The required investment of time and money.

• The risk: There is no guarantee you will improve your grades.

This calculation helps determine if the grade gap is realistically bridgeable. If you needed AAB for Psychology and achieved ABB, a resit is a targeted effort. However, if you needed AAA and got CDD, the gap is much larger, and exploring Clearing might be a better path.

How to Arrange Your A-Level Resit

Your first conversation should be with your school or college’s exams officer. They can tell you if it’s possible to retake your exams there, which is often the simplest and most cost-effective route.

If your school can't help, you'll need to register as a private candidate to sit exams at an external centre. This means you are organising the entry independently. To do this, find an official exam centre using the list provided by the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ). These are typically other schools or private colleges that accept external students. You will need to contact them directly and be prepared to pay their administration fees on top of the exam entry cost.

Finally, be vigilant about deadlines. Exam registration dates for both the autumn series and next summer are strict. Check the specific A-Level exam board’s resit rules well in advance to avoid missing the window.

Do Universities Accept A-Level Resits?

Do universities accept A-level resits? For the vast majority of courses, the answer is a resounding yes. Most institutions care far more that you achieve their required grades than how many attempts it took. Your new, higher grade proves you have the academic ability they are looking for.

The main exceptions are hyper-competitive degrees like Medicine, Dentistry, and Veterinary Science. Some of these courses require grades to be achieved in a ‘single sitting’—meaning all on your first try. For these subjects, it is vital to check the entry requirements on each university’s website, as policies on retaking A-levels can differ significantly.

When preparing your new UCAS application with resit grades, you can turn this experience into a positive. In your personal statement, briefly frame the resit as proof of your resilience and commitment. This shows a level of maturity that admissions tutors value and can strengthen your application.

What's the Real Cost of Retaking A-Levels?

Beyond time and effort, it’s crucial to understand the financial side of resitting. The total cost is made up of two main charges: exam board fees and centre administration fees.

The final price tag varies, but you should expect it to be a few hundred pounds or more per subject. The exam board fee covers marking your paper, while the centre administration fee pays the school or college for hosting you as a private candidate. On top of this, you may have costs for new textbooks or A-level resit courses if you need structured tuition.

This financial commitment is a critical part of your decision. The total cost of retaking A-levels can add up quickly, especially for private candidates in multiple subjects. Before you register, ensure you have a clear picture of all potential expenses.

A-Level Resits vs. Clearing: Which Path Should You Take?

With your results in hand, you're facing a major decision: jump into UCAS Clearing or plan to resit. The core difference between A-level resits vs Clearing comes down to timing and ambition. Clearing offers an immediate university place for this year, while resitting is a strategic choice to pause and aim for the grades you need for next year's entry.

If starting university this autumn is your top priority and you're flexible about the course or location, Clearing is a brilliant option. However, if your heart is set on a specific, competitive course at your dream university, taking the time to resit gives you a second chance to strengthen your UCAS application and reapply.

Before making a choice, take this one crucial step: call the admissions teams at your firm and insurance choice universities. They may still accept you or could even offer a deferred place for next year if you resit and meet the conditions. That single phone call can provide the clarity you need to decide your next move.

What If Resitting Isn't for You? Exploring Other Options

Taking a year to resit isn't the right move for everyone, and that’s okay. Powerful alternatives exist. Consider a Foundation Year—an integrated extra year at university that acts as a bridge to your desired degree. It’s designed to get you up to speed and leads directly onto the full course.

For those eager to start working, a Degree Apprenticeship is a game-changer. You get hired by a company, earn a salary, and gain invaluable experience while they fund your university degree. This means you can graduate with professional skills and zero tuition fee debt.

You can use the UCAS search tool to explore both Foundation Years and Degree Apprenticeships, giving you a clear and immediate view of all the paths available beyond just a resit.

Your A-Level Resit Action Plan

That initial wave of disappointment can now be replaced with a clear map forward. You have a process for deciding if A-level resits are the right path for you. The key is to transform this knowledge into immediate, manageable action.

Your 3-Step Action Plan:

1. Make the Decision: Call your target universities to discuss your situation and weigh the pros and cons in a list.

2. Research the Logistics: Find two potential resit centres and note their fees and registration deadlines.

3. Plan Your Study: Identify your weakest topics from your results and find one new online resource to help close the gap.

Completing these steps shifts you from passive worrying to active planning. An A-level resit isn’t about fixing a failure; it’s a strategic choice to build the future you want. You now have the tools to make that choice with confidence.