GCSE Results Day: Everything you need to know
The nerve-wracking day is upon us, but how does it actually work? When can you get your results? What should you do if your grade isn’t what you expected? Is it game over if you don’t get the results you need?
We’ve got the rundown on what to expect and what’s next for you and your future!
When are the results published?
Results for any GCSE exams taken earlier this year began to be released from 8am today, the 22nd of August 2024.
In England, the grading system has changed from A-E to a numerical system from 9-1.
For a “standard pass”, students require a 4 where a 5 grants you a “strong pass”.
As for Wales and Northern Ireland, GCSEs are graded using letters, unless an exam taken in those nations was from an English exam board.
Can I appeal my exam results?
If you’re unhappy with your results, you should refer this to your school or college. In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, your school will request for your mark to be reviewed by the exam board on your behalf.
Should this be done and you still feel that the grade you’ve received is unfair, this can be escalated further via an appeal.
This is then in the hands of the exam board to consider whether your grade should be corrected. If you still remain unsatisfied with the outcome, you can personally request a review from an independent regulator known as Ofqual.
For students in Scotland, you can appeal directly to the SQA for free – should you want to do this, you are advised to tell your institution of your intention first. If the appeal is accepted, the exam board will review the initial marks received.
Can I resit my exams?
Should it get to the stage where your grade cannot be adjusted further, there’s the ability to resit your exam/s.
Any GCSE or National 5 exam can be re-sat the following year, with GCSE Maths and English exams taking place in November.
All you need to do is express the desire to your school about retaking your exam and the best course of action will be discussed there.
What’s next?
Without being biased, you could consider starting an apprenticeship. Some apprenticeships have GCSE entry requirements which you may need to meet. As an apprentice, you will be paid a salary as you’re trained in the workplace – with one day typically spent studying at your local college.
There’s the option to continue your studies and move on to your A-levels for those in England, Wales and Northern Ireland. In Scotland, this is referred to as Advanced Highers.
Other options include vocational courses such as National Vocational Qualifications (NVQs), BTEC Level 3s, TechBacs, Cambridge Technicals and, only in England, T-levels.
Finally, there’s also the decision of going straight into full-time work or, potentially, an internship. All-in-all, there are plenty of paths you could go down.
All that’s left of us is to wish you all the best in your results! If you’re looking to start an apprenticeship following receiving your results, we’re the absolute experts and ready to help you secure your new role!
For all things apprentice or if you have any queries, please contact us via email at info@apprentice-employment.co.uk or visit our website.
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