What to Do If You Fail A Levels: Next Steps Explained

What to Do If You Fail A Levels: The Ultimate Guide for Students and Parents 2025

Failed your A levels? Don't panic. Whilst A levels are crucial stepping stones in the UK education system, failing them isn't the end of your academic journey. If you've received disappointing results, you've several viable options: retaking your A levels, applying through UCAS Clearing, exploring alternative qualifications such as BTECs or apprenticeships, taking a strategic gap year, or seeking additional support and guidance.

Many students face this challenge due to exam stress and anxiety, inadequate preparation or study techniques, or personal circumstances like health issues or family situations. The key is understanding that this setback can become a setup for future success with the right approach and mindset.

What is considered a fail at A Level?

Technically, failing an A-level means receiving a grade lower than E, which is the lowest passing grade. On your results sheet, this typically appears as a "U" (Unclassified) or "Not Classified." However, achieving grades below a C is often considered a failure in practice, given that this is the minimum required by universities to accept you

Is life over if you fail A levels?

Absolutely not. Whilst A-level results significantly influence university admissions and career paths, failing them doesn't mean your dreams are over. Many successful professionals have overcome early academic setbacks to achieve remarkable careers. The important thing is to view this as a temporary obstacle rather than a permanent roadblock.

Your response to this challenge often matters more than the initial failure itself. This experience can teach resilience, determination, and the value of hard work—qualities that serve you well throughout life.

What happens if you fail your A Levels? Assessing your options

When facing failed A-levels, take time to process your feelings, then focus on constructive next steps. Here are your main options:

1.) Seek guidance

Connect with teachers, school advisors, and peers who've successfully taken A-levels or overcome similar challenges. Their insights can provide valuable perspective on your situation and help you make informed decisions about your next steps.

Consider speaking with:

• Subject teachers who know your strengths
• Career counsellors at your school
• Other students who've retaken A-levels successfully
• University admissions advisors
• Preparation tutors

2.) Revisit your academic goals

Analyse whether you should retake the same A-levels or consider different subjects that better align with your interests and career aspirations. Ask yourself:

• Do you need to retake all subjects or just specific ones?
• Would different A-level combinations better suit your university goals?
• Are your career aspirations still the same?
• What subjects genuinely interest and motivate you?
• What are the easiest A-levels? Could you take any of those?

3.) Register for vocational courses and apprenticeships

Whilst not necessarily replacements for A-levels, vocational courses and apprenticeships can provide valuable experience and help clarify your interests. These options can complement your academic preparation and potentially make future A-level studies more focused and relevant. These can help you further understand your career options and make the decision that best suits you.

4.) Speak to the university

If you have conditional offers, please contact the universities directly. Some institutions may still consider you through alternative entry routes or foundation programs, especially if you narrowly missed the required grades in one of your A-levels.

5.) Apply UCAS clearing

If your grades aren't completely off-target, UCAS Clearing might offer opportunities at alternative universities with available spaces. This system helps match students with unfilled course places, potentially opening doors you hadn't previously considered.

6.) Take a gap year

A structured gap year can provide time to retake A levels whilst gaining work experience, volunteering, or pursuing other interests. This break can offer perspective and motivation for your studies whilst building your CV. Take this time to prepare for retaking A-levels, as well as participate in volunteer work or shadowing opportunities, to strengthen your profile and increase your chances of entering the university of your dreams.

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How do I study for a retake? 5 pro tips

How to revise for A-levels? Preparing a subject for a second time is different, as there are some topics you may have covered effectively, while you still need to revise others. Additionally, you already have some information about what the exam is like, which can help you determine new strategies to succeed.

Select a learning method

Choose between self-study, online learning platforms, or traditional educational environments. You may want to sit your A-levels privately or return to a regular school. Online academies like CloudLearn offer flexible, comprehensive A-level courses that allow you to study at your own pace whilst receiving expert support. The perfect mix between traditional and homeschooling.

Create a study plan

Develop a realistic timeline that accounts for your retake exam dates. Review the syllabus, break it down into manageable chunks, and set weekly targets. Include regular review sessions and practice exams in your schedule to ensure adequate preparation.

Find the right study environment

Identify where you work most effectively—whether that's a quiet library, your bedroom, or a study group setting. Consistency in your study environment can help establish productive habits, so finding the right place and time can be the key to success.

Register with a specialist A Levels institute (if you haven't already done so)

Consider enrolling with dedicated A-level providers who specialise in retakes and understand the unique challenges you're facing. CloudLearn offers tailored support for students retaking A-levels, with experienced tutors and proven study materials.

Let's study!

Implement effective study techniques, including:

• Time management strategies
• Active recall methods
• Past paper practice
• Regular mock exams
• Spaced repetition
• Study groups for motivation
• Tutor support when needed
• Setting realistic, achievable goals

Should I retake my A Levels?

The decision to retake depends on your career goals and university aspirations. If your chosen university course requires specific A-level grades, retaking is often the most direct path forward. The good news is that you already have more information about the exam than the first time: you know what topics it includes, you have tested your strengths and weaknesses, and you have already gone over the materials. If you combine this with new studying strategies and tutor support, passing is practically guaranteed!

For parents – How to support your child

First of all – Be positive

Maintain a supportive, optimistic outlook for both your child and yourself. Remember that academic setbacks are common and don't determine future success. Your reaction significantly influences how your child processes this experience.

Open communication

Maintain honest, supportive dialogue throughout this challenging period. Even as your child enters adulthood, parental support remains crucial during stressful academic transitions. Listen to their concerns and involve them in decision-making about next steps.

Offering practical help

As a parent, there are several ways you can support your kid during A-level preparation. For example, you can help them create their own study space at home to optimise their environment, assist them throughout the administrative process of enrolling in exams, and research information about exams and universities together. This won’t only help your kid stay on track with practical requirements, but also help them find motivation after receiving some disappointing news.

Encouraging resilience and a growth mindset

Help your child view this setback as a learning opportunity. Emphasise that intelligence and ability can be developed through dedication and hard work. Share stories of successful people who overcame early academic challenges and help them see the bright side of taking an exam for the second time.

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Don't let failed A-levels derail your ambitions. With the proper support, preparation, and mindset, you can successfully retake your exams and achieve the grades you need for university admission.

At CloudLearn, we have developed a comprehensive set of courses designed to prepare students for A-levels, guaranteeing 100% success. The only thing you have to do is dedicate the correct number of hours to studying. By covering 360 hours of studying one subject, our students have passed their exams, and they have done so with flying colours! And if that weren’t your case, you can claim your money back.

Enrol in CloudLearn’s A-level courses to make sure your second attempt is your last attempt!

How many students fail A Levels?

The percentage of students who fail their A-levels varies from one subject to another. However, based on the statistics provided by Cambridge, only 6.5% of students receive an ungraded result, and 22.5% of students achieve a grade of D or lower (i.e., one that falls below the minimum required by universities). That means that, though the chances of failing are pretty low, it is not uncommon to do so. You are not alone in this journey!