When Are A Level Biology Exams Held & What’s the Booking Deadline?
When Are A Level Biology Exams Held & What’s the Booking Deadline?
Created:Updated: 14-September-2025
Planning your A Level Biology exams is crucial. Here’s when the exams take place each year, how booking works for private candidates, and what deadlines you need to know.
When Are A Level Biology Exams Held?
A Level Biology exams are normally held once per year during the summer exam series.
The main written papers usually take place in May and June. Practical endorsements (if you are completing them) are scheduled separately by your exam centre.
There is no January sitting for A Level Biology, so you’ll need to plan your studies with the summer exams in mind.
You can confirm the exact timetable for your exam board (AQA, Edexcel, or OCR) by checking their official websites. For example, you can view the latest AQA Biology timetable here.
When Do I Need to Book My Exam Centre?
As a private candidate, it’s your responsibility to book a place at an approved exam centre.
Most exam centres set their booking deadlines in January or February for the summer exams.
However, spaces are limited, and some centres close registration earlier—so it’s strongly advised to contact exam centres well before Christmas in the academic year you plan to sit your exams.
You can find centres via exam board websites or specialist directories such as Tutors & Exams.
What Happens If I Miss the Deadline?
If you miss the standard entry deadline, many exam boards allow late entries—but these usually come with additional fees.
Some centres also stop accepting new candidates altogether after the main deadline, so missing out entirely is a risk.
To avoid stress, always plan to book early. Your course provider can also help with guidance on deadlines and paperwork.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are A Level Biology exams held each year?
They are usually held in May and June as part of the summer exam series.
When is the deadline to book my exam centre?
Most centres set deadlines in January or February, but spaces can fill much earlier.
Can I sit A Level Biology exams in January?
No. There is currently no January sitting—exams are summer only.
What happens if I miss the booking deadline?
Late entries may be possible with extra fees, but some centres stop taking bookings after the deadline.