A-Levels for Private Candidates - A Complete Guide

Are you considering doing A-Levels as a private candidate? Whether you're an international student, an adult learner or simply prefer to study independently, taking A-Levels privately can be a flexible and rewarding option. In this comprehensive guide, we'll answer some of the most common questions about A-Levels for private candidates, from how to study to how to book your exams.

It's important to note that studying A-Levels privately requires a great deal of discipline and self-motivation. Unlike traditional classroom-based learning, there won't be a teacher to keep you on track or classmates to bounce ideas off of. You'll need to create your own study schedule, find appropriate resources, and set realistic goals for yourself. However, with the right mindset and preparation, studying A-Levels privately can be an incredibly fulfilling experience that sets you up for success in further education or your future career.

Before making a decision, know the difference and importance of A-Levels and other exams.

Can I do A-Levels as a private candidate?

Yes, you can! Private candidates are individuals who are not enrolled in a school or college, and who prepare for their exams independently. A-Levels are open to private candidates in most countries, including the UK, where they are offered by a variety of examination boards such as AQA, Edexcel and OCR. However, it's important to note that the availability of subjects and exam centres may vary depending on your location.

In the UK, private candidates can take A-Level exams in a range of subjects, including A-Level Maths, sciences, humanities, and languages. However, it's important to choose the right exam board, as each board has its own syllabus and assessment criteria. Private candidates also need to find an approved examination centre to take their exams, as they are not allowed to sit for exams in schools or colleges where they are not enrolled. It's also important to note that private candidates will not have access to the same level of support and resources as students in schools or colleges, so self-discipline, time management and effective study skills are essential for success. In addition, private candidates need to ensure they register for their exams on time and pay the appropriate fees.

Before choosing your subjects, know which A-Levels don’t have any coursework.

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How do private candidates study for A-Levels?

Private candidates have the flexibility to study at their own pace and choose their own study materials. However, this also means that they must take full responsibility for their learning and create their own study schedule. Many private candidates use textbooks, online resources and past papers from the relevant exam board to prepare for their exams.

Private candidates can also benefit from joining online study groups or hiring an A-Level tutor to help guide them through the material. It's important to note that some exam boards may require private candidates to complete practical coursework or take part in oral exams, which can be challenging to arrange independently.

As a private candidate, it's crucial to stay motivated and focused throughout your studies. Developing good study habits, such as setting achievable goals and creating a study timetable, can help you stay on track and achieve your desired grades. It is vital as well to choose the correct A-levels.

It's also important to have a clear understanding of the exam format and content. You can find this information on the exam board's website, as well as past papers and mark schemes to help you prepare. Overall, while studying as a private candidate for A-Levels can be challenging, it can also be a rewarding and flexible option for those who are self-motivated and independent.

According to available statistics, private school pupils in the UK tend to perform better in A-levels than state school pupils. In 2021, 70.4% of private school pupils received A grades or above, compared to 39.4% of state school pupils. In 2021/22, independent schools had the highest percentage of students achieving two or more A-levels, with 94.3%.

What are the best resources for studying A-Levels as a private candidate?

It is important to use the best A-Level resources available in order to perform well in your exams and achieve the highest grades possible, especially if you are a private candidate. Here is a list of the top A-Level resources for major subjects:

• A-Level Maths Resources
• A-Level Biology Resources
• A-Level Chemistry Resources
• A-Level Physics Resources
• A-Level Computer Science Resources
• A-Level History Resources
• A-Level Geography Resources
• A-Level Psychology Resources
• A-Level Economics Resources
• A-Level Business Studies Resources

How much does it cost to sit A-Levels privately?

The cost of taking A-Levels as a private candidate can vary depending on the examination board and the number of subjects you're taking. You'll need to pay for your exam entry fees, which can range from around £80 to £150 per subject. In addition, you may need to budget for textbooks, revision guides, and other study materials. If you're planning to hire a private tutor or attend a tuition centre, there will be additional costs to consider.

It's worth noting that there may also be additional costs associated with taking A-Levels privately, such as the cost of re-sitting exams or requesting special accommodations, such as extra time or a scribe. It's important to factor in these potential costs when budgeting for your A-Level studies as a private candidate. However, it's also worth noting that there are some financial assistance options available for private candidates, such as bursaries or scholarships, which can help offset the cost of exams and study materials. It's worth researching these options and seeing if you qualify for any financial assistance.

How do I book A-Level exam privately?

To book your A-Level exams as a private candidate, you'll need to register with an examination centre that accepts private candidates. This could be a school, college, or other approved centre. You'll need to provide your personal details, as well as information about the subjects and examination board you're taking. Your centre will then arrange for you to sit your exams on the appropriate dates.

It's important to note that not all examination centres accept private candidates, so it's important to do your research and find one that does. The examination board websites, such as AQA, Edexcel, and OCR, can provide a list of approved examination centres that accept private candidates. It's recommended that you contact the centre well in advance of your desired exam date to ensure availability and to find out about any additional fees or requirements. Once your exams are booked, be sure to keep track of the exam schedule and arrive at the centre with plenty of time to spare on the day of the exam.

Is doing A-Level privately hard?

Studying for A-Levels as a private candidate can be challenging, as it requires a high level of self-discipline and motivation. However, it's also a great opportunity to develop independent study skills and take control of your own learning. With the right resources and support, such as private tuition or online forums, many private candidates achieve excellent results.

Doing A-Levels privately can be quite challenging, especially if you choose difficult A-Levels, as it requires a lot of self-discipline and motivation to succeed. However, it can also be an excellent opportunity to develop independent study skills and take control of your own learning. With the right resources and support, like private tuition or online forums, many private candidates achieve fantastic results.

It's important to note that private candidates must also find their own exam centres, register for their exams, and cover the costs of entry fees and study materials. This can be a lot of responsibility, but it also allows candidates to tailor their study plans to their needs and preferences. Overall, while studying A-Levels as a private candidate can be hard work, it can also be a very rewarding and fulfilling experience.

Want to revise well for your exams, here are some revision websites to help you.

In 2020, there were expected to be 20,000 private candidates taking A-levels, AS-levels, and GCSE exams. According to Ofqual, 58% of private school candidates in England were awarded A* and A grades, compared with 30.7% of state school pupils. However, this gap has narrowed in recent years. It is important to note that the difficulty of A-levels may vary depending on the individual's academic background, preparation, and study habits.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Studying A-Levels as a Private Candidate

Studying for A-Levels as a private candidate can have its advantages and disadvantages. One of the main advantages is the flexibility it offers. Private candidates can choose the subjects they want to study and the pace at which they want to study. This allows students to tailor their learning to suit their individual needs and interests. Additionally, private candidates have more control over their study schedule and can fit their studies around other commitments.

However, studying as a private candidate can also have its challenges. Private candidates miss out on the classroom environment and the support and guidance of a teacher. It can also be difficult to find the right resources and support to help with studies. Private candidates may also have to pay for resources and tuition, which can be costly. Finally, private candidates may find it difficult to stay motivated and disciplined without the structure of regular classes and deadlines. To learn more, check out our article on homeschooling A-levels.

What subjects to get tutoring for as a Private A-Level Candidate?

When considering A-Levels as a private candidate, selecting the appropriate subjects for tutoring can significantly enhance your learning experience and exam outcomes. Here’s a list of subjects commonly chosen for tutoring by private candidates, each offering unique challenges and requiring specialised knowledge:

• A-Level Maths Tutor: Essential for many science and engineering courses at university, A-Level Maths tutoring can make complex concepts like calculus and statistics clearer and easier to manage.
• A-Level Biology Tutor: Since A-Level Biology involves lots of memorisation and understanding complex systems, tutoring in this subject can make these complex topics simpler and easier to understand.
• A-Level Chemistry Tutor: With a need for a solid understanding of both theory and practical skills, A-Level Chemistry tutoring can provide extra practice and explanations in areas like organic chemistry and stoichiometry.
• A-Level Physics Tutor: Merging abstract ideas with practical use, A-Level Physics tutoring can help explain theories, solve problems, and make the maths involved clearer.
• A-Level Psychology Tutor: Concentrating on understanding theories and experiments, as well as their applications, A-Level Psychology tutoring can help organise your notes, prepare you for exams, and make sense of the statistical methods used in psychology.
• A-Level Economics Tutor: Being more conceptual and often involving graphs and formulas, A-Level Economics tutoring can help you grasp economic principles, improve your essay writing, and understand data.
• A-Level History Tutor: Since A-Level History requires a good skill in analysing sources and building coherent arguments, history tutoring can guide you on how to structure your answers effectively and provide deeper insights into historical contexts.

Opting for tutoring in these subjects can provide structured learning, clarify doubts, and enhance your preparation for the exams. Each tutor brings expertise in their subject area, offering targeted help that can adapt to your individual learning style and needs.

Tips for Studying A-Levels as a Private Candidate

If you're planning to study for A-Levels as a private candidate, here are some tips to help you get started:

• Set a study schedule: Create a study timetable that works for you and stick to it. This will help you to stay on track and make steady progress.
• Get organized: Keep your study materials and notes organized and in one place. This will make it easier to revise and review your work.
• Find the right resources: Look for quality resources such as textbooks, revision guides, and online forums. There are many free resources available online, but you may also want to invest in some high-quality study materials.
• Seek support: Consider hiring a private tutor or attending a tuition centre for additional support and guidance. You can also join online forums or study groups to connect with other students studying privately.
• Stay motivated: It can be challenging to stay motivated when studying alone, but it's important to stay focused on your goals. Set small achievable targets and celebrate your successes along the way. Remember, with the right mindset and support, you can achieve excellent results as a private candidate.