GCSE, IGCSE & A-Level Exam Information

How It Works

ICS provide all the learning support throughout your studies. We are your 'learning provider'

We are not however an examination centre. To achieve the final qualification you need to sit an examination as an 'external' or 'private' candidate, at the same time as all other candidates who are studying GCSE, IGCSE & A Levels at schools and colleges.

We will provide you with all the advice and support that we can but we do not directly arrange your examination.  You will be required to source and book your examination with either an AQA or Edexcel registered centre, depending on which awarding body is applicable to your course.

Here are some useful links to the private candidate information provided by AQA and Edexcel:

Examination Dates

Most students aim for an examination in the summer of each year, although some students will split their A Level examination over two sittings, in the spring and summer.

NB: It is best that you apply for the examination as soon as possible. Do not leave your application to the final deadline dates!

For the key information on the examination dates and deadlines please refer to the following links:

Finding An Examination Centre

AQA and Edexcel registered centres are usually schools and colleges within the United Kingdom that are already presenting 'internal' candidates for GCSE, IGCSE or A Level examinations. (Please note that you cannot be entered as an internal and as a private candidate at the same exam centre, during the same exam series.)

It is at the sole discretion of each centre whether they will accept private candidates or not. The awarding bodies do provide information on centres that may accept private candidates and their locations:

Students who are in the armed forces may be able to sit their examination at an Army Education Centre. NB: Your Army Education Officer would need to arrange the entry for you

We offer IGCSE courses which are available for overseas students who are outside of the UK. You can sit the examination at an Edexcel approved centre, for example at a British Council office or International School.

Applying For An Examination Place

You will need to be persistent and organised to ensure you secure an examination place. Please also ensure you apply in good time for a place.

You would be best to approach a school or college in your local area, especially if you have a relationship such as being an ex pupil or it being your child's school etc. The centre may be inclined to accept you, even if, broadly, their policy is not to accept private candidates.

Another alternative would be to approach private tutorial colleges, private schools and faith schools, which are a lot more flexible in terms of accepting private candidates.

We have some exam centres set up to accept private candidates, subject to availability. Please click below and contact them for more information:

Examination fees will vary, with the private schools and colleges being more expensive than your local state school but you should be aware that the fees could be in the region of £40 - £70 per exam.

You should have all the relevant information organised prior to your application and be aware of the examination requirements.  We would recommend that you refer to the awarding body to ensure you have the correct details. 

In particular please make sure you have the following to hand:

  • Correct exam board details
  • Specification codes
  • Unit codes (if required), 
  • Your full address and phone contact details.

 

If you need any help or assistance at any point, please do not hesiate to contact us.