How to Book Your A Level Exams

Not sure how to book your A Level exams as a private candidate? We've got your back!

If you’re studying an A Level course online, you'll still need to sit your exams in person – and (as you might have guessed) simply showing up on the day isn't an option. That's why it's essential to book your A Level exams in advance to avoid any undue last-minute stress!

As an external candidate, you’ll need to book your A Level exams independently – but don’t worry, we’re here to walk you through the process.

Here's what you need to know!

When are A Level exams?

A Level exams are nationally set, so when you book as a private candidate, you’ll still sit your exam at the same time as all other students in the UK.

A Level exams can only be sat in May/June and the dates of your exams will depend on the subject(s) you’re studying and the awarding body that your qualification is supported by.

You can access the exam timetables for each awarding body below: 

• AQA exam timetable
• Edexcel exam timetable

These resources likely won't cover every centre though, so we recommend getting in touch with local schools and colleges to check if they also accept external candidates.

Where can I sit my A Level exams?

You’ll usually be able to sit your A Level exams at your local exam centre.

These exam centres are typically schools or colleges already presenting their students, or private exam centres that specifically cater to private candidates.

You can find your local exam centres that accept private candidates by using the following tool:

• JCQ Joint Council for Qualifications Tool

However, you likely won’t find every available exam centre using this tool, so we’d recommend contacting schools and colleges in your area to check if they accept private candidates.

When should I book my A Level exams?

The May/June diet of A Level exams usually has a booking deadline of January or February.

Exam centres can only accommodate a set number of candidates, so keep in mind that these spaces are allocated to their own students first. To give you the best chance of securing a space at your preferred exam centre, you should aim to book your A Level exam about 6 months before your chosen exam dates.

If you're studying A Level English Language, A Level English Literature or A Level History with us, please note you must find and book an exam centre before applying for entry with us.

The exam centre will be the ‘host’ centre for sitting your exams, while we will be the ‘entering’ centre for the entry and coursework processes, including requests for access arrangements. Our entry deadline is December, for the following summer.

While it's true that you can book your A Level exam closer to your exam dates, we don't recommend waiting. If you do, the chances of getting a place are slim, and you'll likely have to pay late fees if you manage to gain entry.

Special Accommodations & Access Arrangements for GCSE & International GCSE Exams 

If you have a disability, learning difficulty, or medical condition that could impact your performance in your A Level exams, you may be eligible for access arrangements. These include: 

• Extra time
• A reader or scribe
• Assistive technology
• Rest breaks
• A separate exam room

To apply, you’ll need to provide medical evidence or an official assessment report, and your exam centre will submit the request to the exam board. Since approval can take time, we recommend contacting your exam centre as early as possible to make sure you have the support you need come exam day! 

How much will it cost to sit my A Level exams?

The costs associated with your A Level exams can vary greatly depending on the number of exams you're sitting, the subject, the exam centre, the services provided by the centre, and your location.

However, as a private candidate, you can expect to pay your chosen exam centre, on average, a minimum entry fee of around £65 to upwards of £400 per A Level exam. 

Most exam centres will also charge an admin fee when you book the exam to cover the additional costs of invigilation, administration, and processing of the exam entry. Admin fees typically range from around £20 to £100 or so per subject. 

That said, we strongly recommend that you contact multiple exam centres in your local area, so you can be sure you’re getting the best price available! 

What do I need to book my place?

To make sure you can get your exam place booked quickly and easily, it’s important that you have all the right information to hand.

First and foremost, you’ll need the right exam code for the papers you want to sit; this may be referred to as a syllabus, specification, entry or course code. If you can't find your exam code, it's best that you contact your course provider for assistance. 

The exams officer at the centre will also need:

1. Proof of ID with your full name and date of birth
2. Your address and contact details
3. Your Unique Candidate Identifier (UCI)

If you're studying A Level English Language, A Level English Literature or A Level History with us, you’ll be allocated a UCI during the entry process.

Otherwise, your UCI can be found on your certificate for previous UK qualifications, like your GCSEs. Don’t worry if you haven’t sat UK exams before, you’ll be allocated one by the exam board.

Additionally, while most exam centres usually ask for a current passport, it's also a good idea to ask in advance what proof of ID is accepted. If you don't have a valid passport, you may be able to use another photo ID such as a valid driver’s licence.

What should I take with me to the exam?

The exams officer should let you know where in the building you'll be sitting your A Level exam, but it’s still a good idea to arrive about half an hour early in case of any hiccups. 

There are restrictions on what you can and can’t take into the exam room too, so here’s an essential checklist if it’s been a while since you last sat for an A Level course! 

DO take:

1. A piece of valid photo ID
2. Your Statement of Entry (this is not essential but might be helpful)
3. A clear pencil case or bag (to comply with exam regulations) 
4. Multiple black pens, in case one runs out 
5. Pencils, a ruler, an eraser and a sharpener 
6. A scientific calculator, unless the exam paper specifies otherwise
7. A geometry set, equipped with a protractor and compass (if required)
8. A clear bottle of water with no labels 

DON’T take:

• Your mobile phone or smartwatch
• A Wi-Fi-enabled calculator
• Any pieces of paper even if they are blank (unless stated otherwise) 
• Any food items (unless granted special permission due to medical reasons) 

Please note that if you're caught with a prohibited item, regardless of the reason, your exam will immediately be null and void and considered a fail. The exam centre has no say on this as it’s a Joint Council for Qualifications rule.

When will I get my A Level results?

A Level results for 2026 will be released on 13th August.

Your results are typically sent to your exam centre for collection in person, but some centres may offer online access or postal options. Be sure to check with your exams officer in advance to confirm how you'll receive your results.

Good luck – you've got this! 


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