If your A-level results weren't quite what you were hoping for, you might be wondering what are the next steps to take.
First of all, it's worth remembering that you're not alone. Plenty of students will be finding themselves in the exact same position as you.
Try not to worry, and give yourself time to think and consider your next step. Do you need A-levels for what you would like to do next?
This year things are a little different than usual. Exams were cancelled due to the coronavirus pandemic, and students have received teacher-assessed grades instead.
Because of this, you have the option to resit your exams next summer or this autumn if you're eligible.
Why would you consider retaking A-levels?
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A-level results are important for getting into universities and applying for jobs, but they might not be needed for every option out there.
So it's worth researching to see if it's worth your time and money.
It's also worth asking yourself if it's worth appealing your grade if you feel like there has been an error.
But if you feel like you've not performed as well as you were hoping and you do want good grades, retaking them might be a good option.
If you didn't get onto the University course you wanted, you should consider looking through Clearing first.
If you've looked and there is nothing suitable for you, retaking A-levels could be a good idea.
How to retake A-levels
Once you've decided to resit your A-levels, you'll need to decide how you want to do that.
You can choose to study at a school, college or sixth form, or online.
If you want to retake the course in exactly the same way, you can enrol to resit at your school. You should speak to your teacher and ask if you can do this.
As long as school is back to normal, you'll be taught in a classroom and sit the exam.
You also have the option to resit through an online course, which is much more affordable than going to an independent college.
If you want to retake the course at your current school you will have to enquire, as this isn't always an option.
You should call your school and ask if you can resit the exam. If they don't allow retakes you should research schools and colleges and explain the situation.
When can you resit your A-levels?
Regardless of how you decide to study the course, you'll resit your exam on the same date as everyone else.
If you're planning on sitting in the autumn, they will probably happen at your school or college, but this isn't necessarily guaranteed.
You'll have to register your entry to the exams at your school.
Another option is to resit the exams in summer 2022, but you will still need to check with your school if you can retake them there.
Autumn 2021 exams will start on Monday, October 4 and finish on Friday, October 22.
Ofqual has said the deadline for entry is September 8, although you should check with your school.
How much does it cost to retake A-levels?
If you retake your A-levels at your normal school then you might have to pay a small entry fee before sitting the exam - this should be at your school’s discretion and the cost will vary depending on the exam board.
The same will apply if you choose to retake your A-levels at the local college or sixth form.
If you want a more committed environment, you can take them at a college or sixth form dedicated to resitting A-levels.
However, this could cost you an average of £6,000 for one exam.
Lastly, you can opt for re-taking them online, which will likely be much cheaper.
Wherever you resit your A-levels, you will need to pay a tutoring fee and an exam fee.
According to ThinkStudent.co.uk, the price for an online tutor ranges from £20-100.
Meanwhile, an examination fee will cost you about £85.
