If you have recently received your A level results and are not happy with the grades you have been awarded, don’t worry, you still have options. One of the ways in which you can potentially improve your grades is through what is known as A level remarks. A level remarks are a process where your exam papers are reviewed by a senior examiner to ensure that the marking has been done accurately. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about A level remarks and how you can go about requesting one.
Why Should You Consider A level remarks?
There are several reasons why you might want to consider requesting a remark for your A level exams. One of the most common reasons is if you believe that there has been a mistake in the marking of your paper. It is not uncommon for examiners to make errors when marking papers, and a remark can help to rectify any mistakes that may have been made.
Another reason you might want to consider a remark is if you are close to a grade boundary and feel that a small error in the marking may have cost you a higher grade. It is always worth considering a remark if you are only a few marks away from the next grade up.
Finally, if you are planning on applying to university and your grades are not quite what you were hoping for, a remark could potentially improve your grades and give you a better chance of securing a place at your chosen institution.
How Does the A level remarks Process Work?
If you decide that you would like to request a remark for one or more of your A level papers, the first step is to speak to your school or college. They will be able to advise you on the process for requesting a remark and will need to submit the request on your behalf.
There are two types of A level remarks that you can request: a clerical check and a review of marking. A clerical check involves checking that all parts of the exam paper have been marked and that the marks have been added up correctly. This is a relatively quick process and is usually completed within a few days.
A review of marking, on the other hand, involves a senior examiner re-marking your paper to ensure that the original marking was accurate. This process can take longer, often up to a few weeks, but is more likely to result in a change to your grade if an error is found.
It is worth noting that there is a fee for requesting a remark, which is set by the exam board. However, if your grade is changed as a result of the remark, the fee will be refunded.
Should You Request an A Level Remark?
Before deciding whether to request a remark for your A level papers, it is important to consider a few key factors. Firstly, you should speak to your subject teachers to get their opinion on whether a remark is likely to result in a change to your grade. They will be able to give you an insight into the marking process and whether they feel that there may have been an error.
You should also consider the potential impact of a remark on your university or career plans. If you are already holding an offer from a university, it is important to check whether they will still hold your place open if you request a remark.
Ultimately, the decision to request an A level remark is a personal one and will depend on your individual circumstances. If you believe that there has been an error in the marking of your paper or if you are close to a grade boundary, it may be worth considering a remark.
In conclusion, A level remarks can be a valuable tool for students who are unhappy with their exam grades. By requesting a remark, you have the opportunity to ensure that your papers have been marked accurately and potentially improve your grades. If you are considering requesting a remark, be sure to speak to your school or college for advice on the process and whether it is the right decision for you.