What To Do If You Miss an IGCSE Exam

Missing an IGCSE exam can feel overwhelming. Feeling panicked, stressed, and uncertain is totally understandable in these circumstances. The good news is missing an exam does not automatically mean failure. There are clear steps you can take to minimise the impact this has on your final results and next steps. 

This guide explains what to do immediately after missing your exam, how different exam boards handle missed exams, and your options for special consideration or retakes.

Key Takeaways

• Inform someone immediately: Contact a teacher or exams officer as soon as possible. Early communication can make a significant difference.

• Special consideration may be available: If you miss an exam due to illness, bereavement, or other valid reasons, your school can apply on your behalf. Proper evidence is essential.

• Exam board rules differ: Policies for missed exams vary between Cambridge (CIE) (opens in a new tab), Pearson Edexcel (opens in a new tab), and Oxford AQA (opens in a new tab). Knowing your board’s rules will help you understand your options.

• Retake options exist: You may be able to take the exam in the next available series, often in November or the following summer, depending on the subject and board.

First Steps to Take After Missing an IGCSE Exam

Stay Calm and Inform Someone Immediately

The first thing to do is stay calm. Panic can make it harder to think clearly. Tell a responsible adult, such as a parent, teacher, or exams officer, straight away if you have missed your exam. Explaining the situation early shows responsibility and helps your school or centre support you effectively in taking next steps.

Contact Your School or Exam Officer

The next step is to contact your exams officer directly. Provide them with clear details about the exam you missed, the date, and the reason. Be honest and provide any supporting evidence, such as a medical note, explaining why you missed your exam. Clear communication ensures your case can be handled effectively and promptly.

Can You Still Get a Grade?

Missing an exam does not always mean you lose the chance to get a grade.

• Partial absence: If you miss one paper in a multi-paper subject, your overall grade may still be calculated from the papers you completed.

• Predicted grades: Some boards may use predicted grades or teacher assessments if you cannot sit the exam. Policies differ between boards, so make sure to check with your particular board.

• Full absence: Missing all papers usually means no grade will be awarded unless you are approved for special consideration.

Special Consideration: Can You Apply?

What Is Special Consideration?

Special consideration is an adjustment granted by exam boards for students who miss or are disadvantaged in exams due to unforeseen circumstances. Common reasons include illness, injury, or family bereavement.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify, the reason for missing the exam must be serious and supported by valid evidence. Acceptable documents include doctor’s notes, hospital records, or official reports. Minor issues, such as oversleeping or transport problems, usually do not qualify.

How to Apply for Special Consideration

Your school or exam centre will submit a request for special consideration on your behalf. Make sure all documentation is provided to them promptly so they can include this in the application. Deadlines for applications vary by exam board, so contacting your exams officer immediately is critical so you don’t miss your chance to make a request.

Different Exam Boards: What You Need to Know

Cambridge (CIE)

CIE allows special consideration for missed papers if the absence is justified. Partial grades can sometimes be awarded. Early notification to the centre is essential.

Edexcel (Pearson)

Edexcel offers similar special consideration policies. They require evidence and timely reporting. Policies for partial or full absences may differ from CIE, so check the official Edexcel guidance.

Oxford AQA 

Oxford AQA also provides special consideration for valid cases such as illness or other serious issues. Applications must be submitted by the school with supporting evidence, and the board will adjust marks or grades based on what was completed.

What If You’re Too Late to Report It?

Reporting missing an exam too late may limit your options. Even if you have a ‘valid reason’ which would usually qualify for special consideration, if you tell your school, exam centre or exam officer about this too late the exam board may no longer accept it and your final grade may be impacted.

Can You Retake the Exam?

Retake Options for IGCSE Students

Most boards offer students the opportunity to resit in the next available exam series, often in November or the following summer. Registration may require fees, so check with your school or exam centre. You may also be required to resit all papers for your subject (not just those you missed).

Should You Retake or Move On?

Deciding whether to retake your exams depends on your academic goals. Consider future courses, university requirements, and personal development. Use your teacher’s guidance to make an informed choice. Find out more about IGCSE retakes and whether they’re right for you.

How Will Missing an Exam Affect Your Overall Grade?

Exam boards may calculate grades based on completed components. They have discretion over whether your papers are weighted or if they are awarded 0 marks, or No Result at all.

Example scenarios:

• Two papers completed and one missed paper without a ‘valid reason’: A student misses one paper for Biology without a ‘valid reason’ but completes the other two. Marks from the completed papers are counted and the missed paper is awarded 0 marks. The final grade is produced using the total of all three papers without any weighting.

• Two papers completed and one missed paper with a ‘valid reason’: A student misses one paper of Maths with a ‘valid reason’ but completes the other two. Marks from the two completed papers may be weighted to produce a grade.

• All papers missed without a ‘valid reason’: A student misses all Physics papers without a ‘valid reason’ for any. The board may award No Result.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still pass my IGCSE if I miss one paper?

This is possible but depends on the subject and exam board. Partial absence rules can allow marks to be calculated from completed papers in some cases.

What evidence do I need for special consideration?

Valid medical notes, hospital records, or official reports are required. Minor excuses, such as transport delays or oversleeping, are usually not accepted.

How long do I have to report a missed exam?

Report as soon as possible. Each board has deadlines for special consideration, so contact your exams officer immediately. 

Final Thoughts

Missing an IGCSE exam is stressful but not the end of your journey. The most important things are to act quickly, communicate clearly, and understand your board’s policies. Special consideration and retake options exist to help you achieve the best possible outcome. Stay proactive, follow official guidance, and use resources such as Save My Exams to support your preparation for any upcoming exams or retakes.

 References:

• Cambridge (CIE) (opens in a new tab)

• Oxford AQA  (opens in a new tab)

• Edexcel (Pearson) (opens in a new tab)