One of the advantages of advanced level, or A-level, retakes is that the student has a chance to get a better grade, and a higher grade often means a higher chance of acceptance into a university. However, a significant disadvantage is that the student may have to postpone his or her application for up to a year. There’s also the possibility that A-level retakes will fall around the same time as other exams, adding to the pressure during this stressful time.
The main benefit of A-level retakes in the UK and other countries with educational systems based on the UK approach is that the student gets a second chance to get a good grade. When universities decide who to accept, A-level results are the most important factor, and even a single grade improvement can make a difference. A retake is often a good option for a student who feels that he did not achieve the grades that he is capable of.
Because the questions in A-level retakes are frequently similar to those on the original exam, the chances of getting a better grade are generally high. The student will already be aware of the amount of work required to achieve a good grade and will be aware of the types of questions that are likely to be asked. While the format and wording of questions may change, the skills and knowledge needed to respond to them will not. This should put the student ahead of those who are taking the exam for the first time.
A-level retakes, on the other hand, have a number of drawbacks. Because retake exams are only available at certain times, waiting for them can cause a student’s application to a university to be delayed by up to a year. If a student is retaking first-year A-level exams, the retake will take place around the same time as the second-year exams. This can put the student under additional stress and limit the amount of time available to prepare for important second-year tests.
Because A-level retakes are typically held in January or June, the student may not have had time to study the material for up to a year, especially if retaking second-year exams. This is a long time to be away from a subject, and it can be difficult to recall important details. Finding time to review the subject can be difficult and stressful if the student has started a part-time job or another course at this point. A retake should be considered only if there is a good chance of getting a better score.