A-level exams are set to begin this week, meaning many pupils in England, Wales and Northern Ireland will be doing last-minute revisions.
An ‘advanced level’ or A-level is a qualification offered across a range of subjects to school leavers (usually aged 16-18 years old), graded A*-E.
The majority of pupils in England (65 per cent) took three A-levels in 2022, while 18 per cent took two, according to Government statistics.
Pupils who plan to attend university will usually have received conditional offers contingent on the grades they receive at A-level. As such, the results of the exams play a major role in how they spend the next few years of their lives.
As the exam season fast approaches, here’s when A-level exams start this year, as well as when pupils will find out their results.
When do A-level exams start in 2023?
A-level exams begin on May 15, with at least two being held every weekday in morning and afternoon slots until June 27.
Some pupils may have clashes, as the exam timetable is set for the entire country to avoid the possibility of sharing questions and answers online. If this is the case for you or your child, then your school is responsible for organising a time for you to sit both exams.
In Scotland, pupils take Scottish Highers instead of A-levels.
What is the first A-level exam?
One of the first exams to be held in 2023 is in English Language, ‘7701/1: Paper 1: Language and the Individual’. This will be held on Monday, May 15 at 9am and last 90 minutes.
One of the last exams is a Mathematic AS course, ‘7356/2: Paper 2’ on Tuesday, June 27. This will take place in the afternoon and also last 90 minutes.
When is A-level results day in 2023?
With exams ending at the end of June, pupils will then have to wait almost two months for results day.
AS and A-level results will be announced on Thursday, August 17. They are always announced on the third Thursday in August. AS simply refers to the first year of a full A-level. The Uni Guide website says you can study a subject for one year and achieve an AS-level qualification that’s independent from those subjects you carry on with to the full A-level.
Results are usually released early in the morning. Pupils can usually access their results online or in person from their school or college.
For students who have applied to university, results day is when they find out whether they have been accepted into their chosen establishment. If they meet the conditions of their offer, they will be accepted, but if they do not, they may be placed in clearing or have to look for alternative options.
Schools and colleges will usually have staff on hand to provide advice and support to those who may need guidance on their next steps. If a student feels that their grades do not accurately reflect their ability, they may be able to appeal their results through their school or college. However, this can be a lengthy process and is not always successful.
