Didn’t get the result you were hoping for in A Level Physics? The good news is you can resit and aim for a higher grade.

How Do A Level Physics Resits Work?

A Level Physics (AQA 7408) is a linear qualification. To receive a new overall grade, you re-enter the qualification and sit all written papers again in the same exam series (usually May/June).

Exams typically run once per year in the summer. Private candidates must register with an approved centre.

How to Book a Resit

As a private candidate, you arrange your exam directly with an approved exam centre. Entry deadlines can be several months before the exam date, so contact centres early.

Learn how to find an A Level Physics exam centre.

Do I Need to Resit All Papers?

Yes. Because Physics is linear, you sit all written components again in the same series to be awarded a new overall grade. You cannot carry forward written paper marks from a previous year.

What About the Practical Endorsement?

The practical endorsement is reported separately (Pass/Not Classified) and does not affect your exam grade. If you previously achieved a Pass, many centres allow it to be carried forward — check with your chosen centre and AQA. If you still need the endorsement for university entry, arrange it with a centre that offers it to private candidates.

Do I need the practical endorsement for A Level Physics?

Costs and Planning

• Resits incur the exam board entry fee plus the centre’s admin/invigilation charges.
• If you take/retake the practical endorsement, it’s charged separately by the provider.
• Book early—places (especially for endorsements) can fill quickly.

FAQs About Physics Resits

When are resits available?
Typically May/June each year, alongside first-time candidates.

Is there a limit on retakes?
No official limit—you can re-enter in a future series subject to centre availability.

Will universities know I resat?
Many universities accept resits and consider your best achieved grade. Always check specific course policies.

Will my certificate show it was a resit?
Your certificate shows the final grade you achieved, not the number of attempts.