The Student Room Group

My Path to A-Level Success: Retaking Exams as a Private Candidate

Hi everyone,

I wanted to share my experience to help anyone who didn’t get the grades they hoped for on A-level results day and is considering a retake. This post is specifically for private candidates—those who won’t be sitting exams at their old sixth form for any reason.

On A-level results day in 2023, I received a B in AQA Chemistry when I was aiming for an A. Since I had specific universities in mind that required an A, I decided against going through clearing and chose to take a gap year to resit AQA A-level Chemistry. My old sixth form didn’t allow retakes.

Using the JCQ website, I searched for local schools and private institutions that accept external and mature students for A-level retakes. I found Campbell Harris Tutors in High Street Kensington, London. They responded promptly to my inquiries and directed me to their website to complete the registration form.
To register, you’ll need your ULN, exam specification, exam board, and subject details. I paid £350 at the end of August—note that exam prices increase the later you leave it. The £350 covered sitting the three A-level papers only. Since I had already passed the practical component of A-level Chemistry the previous year, I was able to carry that forward to this year’s exam.

For UCAS predicted grades and references, I used an online tutoring platform called Sherpa. I explained my situation to the tutors and had an introductory meeting to discuss my goals and determine if they could assist. Some tutors may ask you to complete practice papers to assess your current grade level. I worked with my tutor once a week, focusing on challenging exam questions to ensure I achieved an A this time. After about three months, my tutor had a solid idea of what grade I could be predicted. I paid £30 per hour-long lesson and had around 20 lessons before feeling confident enough to continue independently.

I submitted my UCAS application in early December for the MPharm course. Some universities may contact you directly for proof of your previous A-level grades and any additional information they require. The person providing your reference will also be contacted.

One crucial thing to keep in mind when looking for tutors is to ensure they have a professional business email. Otherwise, there’s a risk that universities may reject your reference. For example, UCL accepts references from personal emails like Gmail, Hotmail, or Outlook, while KCL required me to resend my reference from a business email, which caused unnecessary hassle and stress. So, double-check this with any tutors you find online to avoid complications.

Once my application was sorted, I had my interviews and entrance exams, and everything went smoothly.

Regarding Campbell Harris Tutors, the exam venue was excellent. It was held in a church centre away from the busy high street, which helped minimise noise. The invigilators were kind and helpful, providing necessary equipment and ensuring everyone had the correct exam papers, as we were sitting different exam boards. Due to varying paper timings, there was a staggered exit from the exam hall, which caused some distraction due to the squeaky floors, but it was manageable. The school did a great job staying organised despite having multiple subjects in the same room.

The headteacher is very approachable and communicative. He sent out the statement of entry around May, including all exam regulations and the venues for each exam date.

As a private candidate, you must bring a form of ID, such as a passport or driving license, along with your statement of entry, which includes your candidate and centre number, to each exam.

Overall, the process went smoothly, and it felt much like taking exams last year, so there’s no need to worry :smile: The only downside of retaking exams privately is the cost. I worked during my gap year to fund my tuition, and I also made time to travel. I started intense revision from March to June, which allowed me to balance my retake preparation with other activities and still enjoy myself. If you’re determined to improve your grade or have a specific university in mind, don’t let the challenges deter you. Money comes and goes, but your university experience and future are invaluable. It required a lot of discipline and mental strength, but in the end, it was all worth it. I had the flexibility to study whenever I wanted and developed a manageable routine for myself. Although there were times when it felt daunting and draining to go over chemistry repeatedly, the effort paid off in the end.

I’m now off to study Pharmacy at King’s College London, and I couldn’t be happier. Everything happens for a reason. Don’t be too hard on yourself—everything will work out in the end.

If you have any questions, feel free to message me. I apologise for the lengthy read, but I hope this has been helpful. I’m happy to share more insights if it would benefit anyone :smile:

Scroll to see replies

Original post by pharmN
Hi everyone,

I wanted to share my experience to help anyone who didn’t get the grades they hoped for on A-level results day and is considering a retake. This post is specifically for private candidates—those who won’t be sitting exams at their old sixth form for any reason.

On A-level results day in 2023, I received a B in AQA Chemistry when I was aiming for an A. Since I had specific universities in mind that required an A, I decided against going through clearing and chose to take a gap year to resit AQA A-level Chemistry. My old sixth form didn’t allow retakes.

Using the JCQ website, I searched for local schools and private institutions that accept external and mature students for A-level retakes. I found Campbell Harris Tutors in High Street Kensington, London. They responded promptly to my inquiries and directed me to their website to complete the registration form.
To register, you’ll need your ULN, exam specification, exam board, and subject details. I paid £350 at the end of August—note that exam prices increase the later you leave it. The £350 covered sitting the three A-level papers only. Since I had already passed the practical component of A-level Chemistry the previous year, I was able to carry that forward to this year’s exam.

For UCAS predicted grades and references, I used an online tutoring platform called Sherpa. I explained my situation to the tutors and had an introductory meeting to discuss my goals and determine if they could assist. Some tutors may ask you to complete practice papers to assess your current grade level. I worked with my tutor once a week, focusing on challenging exam questions to ensure I achieved an A this time. After about three months, my tutor had a solid idea of what grade I could be predicted. I paid £30 per hour-long lesson and had around 20 lessons before feeling confident enough to continue independently.

I submitted my UCAS application in early December for the MPharm course. Some universities may contact you directly for proof of your previous A-level grades and any additional information they require. The person providing your reference will also be contacted.

One crucial thing to keep in mind when looking for tutors is to ensure they have a professional business email. Otherwise, there’s a risk that universities may reject your reference. For example, UCL accepts references from personal emails like Gmail, Hotmail, or Outlook, while KCL required me to resend my reference from a business email, which caused unnecessary hassle and stress. So, double-check this with any tutors you find online to avoid complications.

Once my application was sorted, I had my interviews and entrance exams, and everything went smoothly.

Regarding Campbell Harris Tutors, the exam venue was excellent. It was held in a church centre away from the busy high street, which helped minimise noise. The invigilators were kind and helpful, providing necessary equipment and ensuring everyone had the correct exam papers, as we were sitting different exam boards. Due to varying paper timings, there was a staggered exit from the exam hall, which caused some distraction due to the squeaky floors, but it was manageable. The school did a great job staying organised despite having multiple subjects in the same room.

The headteacher is very approachable and communicative. He sent out the statement of entry around May, including all exam regulations and the venues for each exam date.

As a private candidate, you must bring a form of ID, such as a passport or driving license, along with your statement of entry, which includes your candidate and centre number, to each exam.

Overall, the process went smoothly, and it felt much like taking exams last year, so there’s no need to worry :smile: The only downside of retaking exams privately is the cost. I worked during my gap year to fund my tuition, and I also made time to travel. I started intense revision from March to June, which allowed me to balance my retake preparation with other activities and still enjoy myself. If you’re determined to improve your grade or have a specific university in mind, don’t let the challenges deter you. Money comes and goes, but your university experience and future are invaluable. It required a lot of discipline and mental strength, but in the end, it was all worth it. I had the flexibility to study whenever I wanted and developed a manageable routine for myself. Although there were times when it felt daunting and draining to go over chemistry repeatedly, the effort paid off in the end.

I’m now off to study Pharmacy at King’s College London, and I couldn’t be happier. Everything happens for a reason. Don’t be too hard on yourself—everything will work out in the end.

If you have any questions, feel free to message me. I apologise for the lengthy read, but I hope this has been helpful. I’m happy to share more insights if it would benefit anyone :smile:

Thank you for sharing this, congratulations :heart:

Reply 2

Original post by 04MR17
Thank you for sharing this, congratulations :heart:

Thank you so much!

Reply 3

Original post by pharmN
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share my experience to help anyone who didn’t get the grades they hoped for on A-level results day and is considering a retake. This post is specifically for private candidates—those who won’t be sitting exams at their old sixth form for any reason.
On A-level results day in 2023, I received a B in AQA Chemistry when I was aiming for an A. Since I had specific universities in mind that required an A, I decided against going through clearing and chose to take a gap year to resit AQA A-level Chemistry. My old sixth form didn’t allow retakes.
Using the JCQ website, I searched for local schools and private institutions that accept external and mature students for A-level retakes. I found Campbell Harris Tutors in High Street Kensington, London. They responded promptly to my inquiries and directed me to their website to complete the registration form.
To register, you’ll need your ULN, exam specification, exam board, and subject details. I paid £350 at the end of August—note that exam prices increase the later you leave it. The £350 covered sitting the three A-level papers only. Since I had already passed the practical component of A-level Chemistry the previous year, I was able to carry that forward to this year’s exam.
For UCAS predicted grades and references, I used an online tutoring platform called Sherpa. I explained my situation to the tutors and had an introductory meeting to discuss my goals and determine if they could assist. Some tutors may ask you to complete practice papers to assess your current grade level. I worked with my tutor once a week, focusing on challenging exam questions to ensure I achieved an A this time. After about three months, my tutor had a solid idea of what grade I could be predicted. I paid £30 per hour-long lesson and had around 20 lessons before feeling confident enough to continue independently.
I submitted my UCAS application in early December for the MPharm course. Some universities may contact you directly for proof of your previous A-level grades and any additional information they require. The person providing your reference will also be contacted.
One crucial thing to keep in mind when looking for tutors is to ensure they have a professional business email. Otherwise, there’s a risk that universities may reject your reference. For example, UCL accepts references from personal emails like Gmail, Hotmail, or Outlook, while KCL required me to resend my reference from a business email, which caused unnecessary hassle and stress. So, double-check this with any tutors you find online to avoid complications.
Once my application was sorted, I had my interviews and entrance exams, and everything went smoothly.
Regarding Campbell Harris Tutors, the exam venue was excellent. It was held in a church centre away from the busy high street, which helped minimise noise. The invigilators were kind and helpful, providing necessary equipment and ensuring everyone had the correct exam papers, as we were sitting different exam boards. Due to varying paper timings, there was a staggered exit from the exam hall, which caused some distraction due to the squeaky floors, but it was manageable. The school did a great job staying organised despite having multiple subjects in the same room.
The headteacher is very approachable and communicative. He sent out the statement of entry around May, including all exam regulations and the venues for each exam date.
As a private candidate, you must bring a form of ID, such as a passport or driving license, along with your statement of entry, which includes your candidate and centre number, to each exam.
Overall, the process went smoothly, and it felt much like taking exams last year, so there’s no need to worry :smile: The only downside of retaking exams privately is the cost. I worked during my gap year to fund my tuition, and I also made time to travel. I started intense revision from March to June, which allowed me to balance my retake preparation with other activities and still enjoy myself. If you’re determined to improve your grade or have a specific university in mind, don’t let the challenges deter you. Money comes and goes, but your university experience and future are invaluable. It required a lot of discipline and mental strength, but in the end, it was all worth it. I had the flexibility to study whenever I wanted and developed a manageable routine for myself. Although there were times when it felt daunting and draining to go over chemistry repeatedly, the effort paid off in the end.
I’m now off to study Pharmacy at King’s College London, and I couldn’t be happier. Everything happens for a reason. Don’t be too hard on yourself—everything will work out in the end.
If you have any questions, feel free to message me. I apologise for the lengthy read, but I hope this has been helpful. I’m happy to share more insights if it would benefit anyone :smile:

hii, i’m interested in retaking and reapplying next year because i was one grade off for my course sadly but i just wanted to know more about the UCAS application process. Is it essentially the same process as before when you apply during year 13?
Original post by sooshi_
hii, i’m interested in retaking and reapplying next year because i was one grade off for my course sadly but i just wanted to know more about the UCAS application process. Is it essentially the same process as before when you apply during year 13?

Yes it will be pretty much :smile:
The changes to personal statements you may have read about won't come in until those applying to start uni in 2026.
Can I ask which course you are wanting to study?

Reply 5

Original post by pharmN
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share my experience to help anyone who didn’t get the grades they hoped for on A-level results day and is considering a retake. This post is specifically for private candidates—those who won’t be sitting exams at their old sixth form for any reason.
On A-level results day in 2023, I received a B in AQA Chemistry when I was aiming for an A. Since I had specific universities in mind that required an A, I decided against going through clearing and chose to take a gap year to resit AQA A-level Chemistry. My old sixth form didn’t allow retakes.
Using the JCQ website, I searched for local schools and private institutions that accept external and mature students for A-level retakes. I found Campbell Harris Tutors in High Street Kensington, London. They responded promptly to my inquiries and directed me to their website to complete the registration form.
To register, you’ll need your ULN, exam specification, exam board, and subject details. I paid £350 at the end of August—note that exam prices increase the later you leave it. The £350 covered sitting the three A-level papers only. Since I had already passed the practical component of A-level Chemistry the previous year, I was able to carry that forward to this year’s exam.
For UCAS predicted grades and references, I used an online tutoring platform called Sherpa. I explained my situation to the tutors and had an introductory meeting to discuss my goals and determine if they could assist. Some tutors may ask you to complete practice papers to assess your current grade level. I worked with my tutor once a week, focusing on challenging exam questions to ensure I achieved an A this time. After about three months, my tutor had a solid idea of what grade I could be predicted. I paid £30 per hour-long lesson and had around 20 lessons before feeling confident enough to continue independently.
I submitted my UCAS application in early December for the MPharm course. Some universities may contact you directly for proof of your previous A-level grades and any additional information they require. The person providing your reference will also be contacted.
One crucial thing to keep in mind when looking for tutors is to ensure they have a professional business email. Otherwise, there’s a risk that universities may reject your reference. For example, UCL accepts references from personal emails like Gmail, Hotmail, or Outlook, while KCL required me to resend my reference from a business email, which caused unnecessary hassle and stress. So, double-check this with any tutors you find online to avoid complications.
Once my application was sorted, I had my interviews and entrance exams, and everything went smoothly.
Regarding Campbell Harris Tutors, the exam venue was excellent. It was held in a church centre away from the busy high street, which helped minimise noise. The invigilators were kind and helpful, providing necessary equipment and ensuring everyone had the correct exam papers, as we were sitting different exam boards. Due to varying paper timings, there was a staggered exit from the exam hall, which caused some distraction due to the squeaky floors, but it was manageable. The school did a great job staying organised despite having multiple subjects in the same room.
The headteacher is very approachable and communicative. He sent out the statement of entry around May, including all exam regulations and the venues for each exam date.
As a private candidate, you must bring a form of ID, such as a passport or driving license, along with your statement of entry, which includes your candidate and centre number, to each exam.
Overall, the process went smoothly, and it felt much like taking exams last year, so there’s no need to worry :smile: The only downside of retaking exams privately is the cost. I worked during my gap year to fund my tuition, and I also made time to travel. I started intense revision from March to June, which allowed me to balance my retake preparation with other activities and still enjoy myself. If you’re determined to improve your grade or have a specific university in mind, don’t let the challenges deter you. Money comes and goes, but your university experience and future are invaluable. It required a lot of discipline and mental strength, but in the end, it was all worth it. I had the flexibility to study whenever I wanted and developed a manageable routine for myself. Although there were times when it felt daunting and draining to go over chemistry repeatedly, the effort paid off in the end.
I’m now off to study Pharmacy at King’s College London, and I couldn’t be happier. Everything happens for a reason. Don’t be too hard on yourself—everything will work out in the end.
If you have any questions, feel free to message me. I apologise for the lengthy read, but I hope this has been helpful. I’m happy to share more insights if it would benefit anyone :smile:

Did you investigate retaking the course and exam at a state school or 6th form college? Is this even an option

Reply 6

Original post by Pigdogcat69
Did you investigate retaking the course and exam at a state school or 6th form college? Is this even an option

what do you mean by this? :smile:

Reply 7

Original post by 04MR17
Yes it will be pretty much :smile:
The changes to personal statements you may have read about won't come in until those applying to start uni in 2026.
Can I ask which course you are wanting to study?

thank youu. im interested in applying for comp sci, do i need to make a new UCAS application entirely to apply for 2025 as a private candidate ? If so how do i go about doing that ?

Reply 8

Original post by sooshi_
thank youu. im interested in applying for comp sci, do i need to make a new UCAS application entirely to apply for 2025 as a private candidate ? If so how do i go about doing that ?

hi, yes. its best if you use a new email to make a new UCAS account, you'll see in your new account that you'll have a new student ID/UCAS number but this will revert back to the one you used this year. in terms of applying as a private candidate - you are in charge of your application, you need to find someone who can write your reference - anyone who can comment on your academic abilities, and can also give you your predicted grade. I used my online tutor for this. hope this helps :smile:

Reply 9

Original post by pharmN
what do you mean by this? :smile:

Did you ask if you could attend YR13 lessons and take exams at local school or 6th form?

Reply 10

Original post by Pigdogcat69
Did you ask if you could attend YR13 lessons and take exams at local school or 6th form?

no my School did not have this option, I wasn't allowed to go back for lessons or to sit my exams.

Reply 11

Original post by pharmN
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share my experience to help anyone who didn’t get the grades they hoped for on A-level results day and is considering a retake. This post is specifically for private candidates—those who won’t be sitting exams at their old sixth form for any reason.
On A-level results day in 2023, I received a B in AQA Chemistry when I was aiming for an A. Since I had specific universities in mind that required an A, I decided against going through clearing and chose to take a gap year to resit AQA A-level Chemistry. My old sixth form didn’t allow retakes.
Using the JCQ website, I searched for local schools and private institutions that accept external and mature students for A-level retakes. I found Campbell Harris Tutors in High Street Kensington, London. They responded promptly to my inquiries and directed me to their website to complete the registration form.
To register, you’ll need your ULN, exam specification, exam board, and subject details. I paid £350 at the end of August—note that exam prices increase the later you leave it. The £350 covered sitting the three A-level papers only. Since I had already passed the practical component of A-level Chemistry the previous year, I was able to carry that forward to this year’s exam.
For UCAS predicted grades and references, I used an online tutoring platform called Sherpa. I explained my situation to the tutors and had an introductory meeting to discuss my goals and determine if they could assist. Some tutors may ask you to complete practice papers to assess your current grade level. I worked with my tutor once a week, focusing on challenging exam questions to ensure I achieved an A this time. After about three months, my tutor had a solid idea of what grade I could be predicted. I paid £30 per hour-long lesson and had around 20 lessons before feeling confident enough to continue independently.
I submitted my UCAS application in early December for the MPharm course. Some universities may contact you directly for proof of your previous A-level grades and any additional information they require. The person providing your reference will also be contacted.
One crucial thing to keep in mind when looking for tutors is to ensure they have a professional business email. Otherwise, there’s a risk that universities may reject your reference. For example, UCL accepts references from personal emails like Gmail, Hotmail, or Outlook, while KCL required me to resend my reference from a business email, which caused unnecessary hassle and stress. So, double-check this with any tutors you find online to avoid complications.
Once my application was sorted, I had my interviews and entrance exams, and everything went smoothly.
Regarding Campbell Harris Tutors, the exam venue was excellent. It was held in a church centre away from the busy high street, which helped minimise noise. The invigilators were kind and helpful, providing necessary equipment and ensuring everyone had the correct exam papers, as we were sitting different exam boards. Due to varying paper timings, there was a staggered exit from the exam hall, which caused some distraction due to the squeaky floors, but it was manageable. The school did a great job staying organised despite having multiple subjects in the same room.
The headteacher is very approachable and communicative. He sent out the statement of entry around May, including all exam regulations and the venues for each exam date.
As a private candidate, you must bring a form of ID, such as a passport or driving license, along with your statement of entry, which includes your candidate and centre number, to each exam.
Overall, the process went smoothly, and it felt much like taking exams last year, so there’s no need to worry :smile: The only downside of retaking exams privately is the cost. I worked during my gap year to fund my tuition, and I also made time to travel. I started intense revision from March to June, which allowed me to balance my retake preparation with other activities and still enjoy myself. If you’re determined to improve your grade or have a specific university in mind, don’t let the challenges deter you. Money comes and goes, but your university experience and future are invaluable. It required a lot of discipline and mental strength, but in the end, it was all worth it. I had the flexibility to study whenever I wanted and developed a manageable routine for myself. Although there were times when it felt daunting and draining to go over chemistry repeatedly, the effort paid off in the end.
I’m now off to study Pharmacy at King’s College London, and I couldn’t be happier. Everything happens for a reason. Don’t be too hard on yourself—everything will work out in the end.
If you have any questions, feel free to message me. I apologise for the lengthy read, but I hope this has been helpful. I’m happy to share more insights if it would benefit anyone :smile:

absolutely amazing story this is; I think I may have even come across it on reddit as well ykk haha
I did the exact same thing and now I'm off to KCL as well for PPE, come onnn, my guy we out 'ere man fr😌💫💯

Reply 12

Original post by JVorJrose
absolutely amazing story this is; I think I may have even come across it on reddit as well ykk haha
I did the exact same thing and now I'm off to KCL as well for PPE, come onnn, my guy we out 'ere man fr😌💫💯

im glad there's people sharing their stories on reddit, need to jump on that haha. congrats to you too!! so proud of us!! best thing we could've done for ourselves honestly. wish you all the best :smile:

Reply 13

Original post by pharmN
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share my experience to help anyone who didn’t get the grades they hoped for on A-level results day and is considering a retake. This post is specifically for private candidates—those who won’t be sitting exams at their old sixth form for any reason.
On A-level results day in 2023, I received a B in AQA Chemistry when I was aiming for an A. Since I had specific universities in mind that required an A, I decided against going through clearing and chose to take a gap year to resit AQA A-level Chemistry. My old sixth form didn’t allow retakes.
Using the JCQ website, I searched for local schools and private institutions that accept external and mature students for A-level retakes. I found Campbell Harris Tutors in High Street Kensington, London. They responded promptly to my inquiries and directed me to their website to complete the registration form.
To register, you’ll need your ULN, exam specification, exam board, and subject details. I paid £350 at the end of August—note that exam prices increase the later you leave it. The £350 covered sitting the three A-level papers only. Since I had already passed the practical component of A-level Chemistry the previous year, I was able to carry that forward to this year’s exam.
For UCAS predicted grades and references, I used an online tutoring platform called Sherpa. I explained my situation to the tutors and had an introductory meeting to discuss my goals and determine if they could assist. Some tutors may ask you to complete practice papers to assess your current grade level. I worked with my tutor once a week, focusing on challenging exam questions to ensure I achieved an A this time. After about three months, my tutor had a solid idea of what grade I could be predicted. I paid £30 per hour-long lesson and had around 20 lessons before feeling confident enough to continue independently.
I submitted my UCAS application in early December for the MPharm course. Some universities may contact you directly for proof of your previous A-level grades and any additional information they require. The person providing your reference will also be contacted.
One crucial thing to keep in mind when looking for tutors is to ensure they have a professional business email. Otherwise, there’s a risk that universities may reject your reference. For example, UCL accepts references from personal emails like Gmail, Hotmail, or Outlook, while KCL required me to resend my reference from a business email, which caused unnecessary hassle and stress. So, double-check this with any tutors you find online to avoid complications.
Once my application was sorted, I had my interviews and entrance exams, and everything went smoothly.
Regarding Campbell Harris Tutors, the exam venue was excellent. It was held in a church centre away from the busy high street, which helped minimise noise. The invigilators were kind and helpful, providing necessary equipment and ensuring everyone had the correct exam papers, as we were sitting different exam boards. Due to varying paper timings, there was a staggered exit from the exam hall, which caused some distraction due to the squeaky floors, but it was manageable. The school did a great job staying organised despite having multiple subjects in the same room.
The headteacher is very approachable and communicative. He sent out the statement of entry around May, including all exam regulations and the venues for each exam date.
As a private candidate, you must bring a form of ID, such as a passport or driving license, along with your statement of entry, which includes your candidate and centre number, to each exam.
Overall, the process went smoothly, and it felt much like taking exams last year, so there’s no need to worry :smile: The only downside of retaking exams privately is the cost. I worked during my gap year to fund my tuition, and I also made time to travel. I started intense revision from March to June, which allowed me to balance my retake preparation with other activities and still enjoy myself. If you’re determined to improve your grade or have a specific university in mind, don’t let the challenges deter you. Money comes and goes, but your university experience and future are invaluable. It required a lot of discipline and mental strength, but in the end, it was all worth it. I had the flexibility to study whenever I wanted and developed a manageable routine for myself. Although there were times when it felt daunting and draining to go over chemistry repeatedly, the effort paid off in the end.
I’m now off to study Pharmacy at King’s College London, and I couldn’t be happier. Everything happens for a reason. Don’t be too hard on yourself—everything will work out in the end.
If you have any questions, feel free to message me. I apologise for the lengthy read, but I hope this has been helpful. I’m happy to share more insights if it would benefit anyone :smile:

pls can you post the link to the JCQ site where I can look for private resit centres?

Reply 14

Original post by BeAlone25
pls can you post the link to the JCQ site where I can look for private resit centres?

https://www.jcq.org.uk/private-candidates/

Reply 15

Original post by pharmN
Hi everyone,
I wanted to share my experience to help anyone who didn’t get the grades they hoped for on A-level results day and is considering a retake. This post is specifically for private candidates—those who won’t be sitting exams at their old sixth form for any reason.
On A-level results day in 2023, I received a B in AQA Chemistry when I was aiming for an A. Since I had specific universities in mind that required an A, I decided against going through clearing and chose to take a gap year to resit AQA A-level Chemistry. My old sixth form didn’t allow retakes.
Using the JCQ website, I searched for local schools and private institutions that accept external and mature students for A-level retakes. I found Campbell Harris Tutors in High Street Kensington, London. They responded promptly to my inquiries and directed me to their website to complete the registration form.
To register, you’ll need your ULN, exam specification, exam board, and subject details. I paid £350 at the end of August—note that exam prices increase the later you leave it. The £350 covered sitting the three A-level papers only. Since I had already passed the practical component of A-level Chemistry the previous year, I was able to carry that forward to this year’s exam.
For UCAS predicted grades and references, I used an online tutoring platform called Sherpa. I explained my situation to the tutors and had an introductory meeting to discuss my goals and determine if they could assist. Some tutors may ask you to complete practice papers to assess your current grade level. I worked with my tutor once a week, focusing on challenging exam questions to ensure I achieved an A this time. After about three months, my tutor had a solid idea of what grade I could be predicted. I paid £30 per hour-long lesson and had around 20 lessons before feeling confident enough to continue independently.
I submitted my UCAS application in early December for the MPharm course. Some universities may contact you directly for proof of your previous A-level grades and any additional information they require. The person providing your reference will also be contacted.
One crucial thing to keep in mind when looking for tutors is to ensure they have a professional business email. Otherwise, there’s a risk that universities may reject your reference. For example, UCL accepts references from personal emails like Gmail, Hotmail, or Outlook, while KCL required me to resend my reference from a business email, which caused unnecessary hassle and stress. So, double-check this with any tutors you find online to avoid complications.
Once my application was sorted, I had my interviews and entrance exams, and everything went smoothly.
Regarding Campbell Harris Tutors, the exam venue was excellent. It was held in a church centre away from the busy high street, which helped minimise noise. The invigilators were kind and helpful, providing necessary equipment and ensuring everyone had the correct exam papers, as we were sitting different exam boards. Due to varying paper timings, there was a staggered exit from the exam hall, which caused some distraction due to the squeaky floors, but it was manageable. The school did a great job staying organised despite having multiple subjects in the same room.
The headteacher is very approachable and communicative. He sent out the statement of entry around May, including all exam regulations and the venues for each exam date.
As a private candidate, you must bring a form of ID, such as a passport or driving license, along with your statement of entry, which includes your candidate and centre number, to each exam.
Overall, the process went smoothly, and it felt much like taking exams last year, so there’s no need to worry :smile: The only downside of retaking exams privately is the cost. I worked during my gap year to fund my tuition, and I also made time to travel. I started intense revision from March to June, which allowed me to balance my retake preparation with other activities and still enjoy myself. If you’re determined to improve your grade or have a specific university in mind, don’t let the challenges deter you. Money comes and goes, but your university experience and future are invaluable. It required a lot of discipline and mental strength, but in the end, it was all worth it. I had the flexibility to study whenever I wanted and developed a manageable routine for myself. Although there were times when it felt daunting and draining to go over chemistry repeatedly, the effort paid off in the end.
I’m now off to study Pharmacy at King’s College London, and I couldn’t be happier. Everything happens for a reason. Don’t be too hard on yourself—everything will work out in the end.
If you have any questions, feel free to message me. I apologise for the lengthy read, but I hope this has been helpful. I’m happy to share more insights if it would benefit anyone :smile:


Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I’m retaking two of my subjects this year and this made it seem all the more manageable. Well done and good luck at KCL : )

Reply 17

Original post by pharmN
hi, yes. its best if you use a new email to make a new UCAS account, you'll see in your new account that you'll have a new student ID/UCAS number but this will revert back to the one you used this year. in terms of applying as a private candidate - you are in charge of your application, you need to find someone who can write your reference - anyone who can comment on your academic abilities, and can also give you your predicted grade. I used my online tutor for this. hope this helps :smile:

thank you so much! i would like to apply to kings as well and i feel a lot more confident after hearing your story!

Reply 18

Original post by SodaMontgomery
Thank you so much for sharing your experience! I’m retaking two of my subjects this year and this made it seem all the more manageable. Well done and good luck at KCL : )

you've got this! thank you so much

Reply 19

Original post by sooshi_
thank you so much! i would like to apply to kings as well and i feel a lot more confident after hearing your story!
you can do this!