The top 4 benefits of an A level retake

Greene's College Oxford explore the advantages of choosing to retake your A levels, from improved academic performance and expanded university options to enhanced knowledge and personal growth. Delve into how to make an A* lemonade out of D-grade lemons!

1. IMPROVED ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE

An A level retake can significantly enhance academic performance in multiple ways. Firstly, it allows students to identify and rectify any gaps in their understanding of the subject matter, thereby reinforcing foundational knowledge. Secondly, retaking A levels provides an opportunity to adopt more effective study strategies, time management techniques, and exam preparation methods based on past experiences. Moreover, retakers can benefit from targeted support and guidance from teachers or tutors, like those available at Greene’s, who can provide personalized feedback and assistance. By addressing weaknesses, refining study habits, and accessing additional resources, an A level retake empowers students to achieve higher grades and excel academically. Redoing A levels at Greene’s also enables our students to gain UCAS and admissions assistance from a dedicated Personal Tutor, as well as a close monitoring of the development of their studies.

2. ENHANCED KNOWLEDGE AND UNDERSTANDING

An A level retake offers a valuable chance to deepen knowledge and understanding of the subjects being studied. By revisiting the content and concepts, students can delve deeper into the material, gaining a more comprehensive understanding. This process enables them to identify areas of weakness and focus on specific topics that require further exploration. Retaking A levels also allows students to approach the subjects with a fresh perspective, building upon their prior knowledge and integrating new insights gained from additional study or life experiences. Ultimately, the retake journey promotes a richer and more profound understanding of the subjects, fostering a solid foundation for future academic pursuits or career paths. Did you know? At Greene’s, 92% of all A level retakes improve by at least two grades.

3. INCREASED CONFIDENCE

An A level retake has the potential to significantly increase confidence levels. By choosing to retake exams, students demonstrate their determination and willingness to confront academic challenges head-on. This commitment to self-improvement and the ability to persevere in the face of setbacks can have a profound impact on one’s self-belief and overall confidence. As students invest time and effort into their studies, improve their understanding of the subjects, and witness their own progress, they gain a sense of accomplishment and pride. This newfound confidence extends beyond academic pursuits, positively influencing personal growth, resilience, and the ability to tackle future endeavours with self-assurance.

4. EXPANDED UNIVERSITY OPTIONS

Retaking A levels can expand university options by opening doors to a wider range of institutions. For example, Greene’s students in 2022/23 hold offers for 22 out of the 24 Russell Group universities, including the University of Oxford and the University of Cambridge. By achieving higher grades in a retake, students may meet the entry requirements of universities that were previously out of reach. This increased academic achievement showcases dedication, perseverance, and improvement, which can make a strong impression on admissions officers. Retaking A levels also allows students to align their grades with specific course prerequisites, enabling them to pursue their desired field of study. Ultimately, the expanded university options resulting from an A level retake provide students with more choices and opportunities to find the right educational institution for their future goals.

To discuss your A level retake at Greene’s, get in touch with a member of our team here.