Read more

Understanding Your Retake Options

 

The flexibility of A level retake opens up academic opportunities for everyone, from young students aiming to improve university prospects to mature learners looking to enhance their skills or enter a new profession. If you’ve decided to retake your A Levels, the first step is to explore options through local colleges, sixth forms, or online institutions. If you recently left school, it may be possible to resit at your former school or an alternative nearby. However, for those who have been out of the education system for a while, many standard schools may not accommodate mature students. In this case, sixth form colleges or adult education centres, which often welcome mature learners, are ideal. Online courses are another flexible alternative, especially for those juggling other responsibilities.

Can you retake a levels at any age?

If you’ve decided to retake your A levels, the first step is to explore options through local colleges, sixth forms, or online institutions. If you recently left school, it may be possible to resit at your former school or an alternative nearby. However, for those who have been out of the education system for a while, many standard schools may not accommodate mature students. In this case, sixth form colleges or adult education centres, which often welcome mature learners, are ideal. Online courses are another flexible alternative, especially for those juggling other responsibilities.

Considerations for Mature Students

Mature students retaking A levels often have unique needs and constraints. For example, balancing work and study can be challenging, and A levels require significant commitment. Part-time or evening courses, commonly offered by online providers, can provide the necessary flexibility. Some institutions, like Greene’s, allow students to study at their own pace, which is particularly beneficial for those managing a busy schedule.

Moreover, while some people only need to improve one or two subjects, retaking A levels generally involves resitting the entire exam rather than specific modules, as final grades are awarded based on the end-of-course exams. If you’re satisfied with coursework marks from your previous attempt, you may be able to carry those forward, lightening your study load slightly.

Should You Retake?

Before deciding to retake A Levels, it’s important to assess whether doing so aligns with your educational or career goals. Some careers or university courses have specific entry requirements, making retakes essential if your current grades don’t meet these criteria. On the other hand, if your chosen path doesn’t require specific grades, a retake may not be necessary. It’s a strategic decision that should be made based on your long-term goals.

Final Thoughts

Retaking A Levels is a commitment that requires careful planning and dedication. While there’s no limit to how many times you can retake them, it’s often best to take a thoughtful approach and choose a study method that aligns with your learning style and schedule. Many universities value the perseverance and motivation shown by retake students, so a higher score can enhance your application and increase your chances of success in higher education.

About Greene’s

Greene’s College Oxford specialises in supporting A level retakes and offers a tailored approach for students of all ages. With options for both online and face-to-face learning, Greene’s provides the flexibility many mature students need to balance studies with other commitments. Their personalised academic programmes include one-on-one tutorials with subject specialists, structured study plans, and access to seminars designed to deepen understanding in key areas. Greene’s also offers extensive UCAS and career guidance, ensuring that retake students are well-prepared to achieve their goals. With additional campuses, such as their location in Estoril, Portugal, Greene’s supports students internationally, making it a versatile option for A level retakes that goes beyond traditional classroom settings.

 

Greene’s Prospectus

Create your personal prospectus by selecting your interests.

This link will take you to Greene’s International

Proceed

Download Form

This field is hidden when viewing the form