How to Resit A Level Computer Science

If your first attempt at A Level Computer Science didn’t go the way you hoped, you still have a valuable opportunity ahead of you. Resitting might feel like a step back, but it often leads to a deeper understanding of the subject and a stronger result. Many students find that the second time around, things start to make more sense once the pressure of learning everything at once has lifted.

A Level Computer Science is a rigorous subject that demands a solid grasp of both theoretical principles and practical programming skills. Whether you struggled with time management, misunderstood key topics, or found the programming project overwhelming, a resit allows you to learn from those challenges and take a more strategic approach.

This guide explains how to approach a resit for A Level Computer Science, including when to consider it, how the process works, the different routes available, and effective strategies to help you succeed with exam boards like OCR or AQA.

When to Resit Your Exam

Resitting makes the most sense if you believe you can improve your grade with focused preparation. Maybe you narrowly missed a university offer, or your original grade doesn’t reflect your true ability. A resit can help you show what you’re really capable of, especially if you now have more time to prepare and fewer subjects to juggle.

Your first result likely highlighted some key gaps. These might have been specific to theory (such as abstraction, algorithm efficiency, or networking) or the non-exam assessment (NEA), which carries significant weight in the final grade. Understanding what went wrong is your starting point.

The Resit Process for A Level Computer Science

Although the structure is similar across boards, there are key differences to understand. Here’s what to expect:

Step 1: Confirm Your Exam Board

Most students resit with the same board they previously used. The two most common options in the UK are:

• OCR (H446): Two written exams plus a non-exam assessment (NEA) programming project.

• AQA (7517): Two written exams and an NEA that make up 20% of the final grade.

Some students choose to switch boards, but this is not always advisable as coursework requirements and assessment structures vary. It’s usually best to stick with your original board unless you have a strong reason and support in place.

Step 2: Decide How You Will Resit

Depending on your situation, you can:

• Resit through your previous school or Sixth Form, if they offer that option.

• Register as a private candidate through an exam centre that accepts A Level entries.

• Join a college or online learning provider, particularly if you're combining it with other study or work.

Be aware that not all centres accept NEA submissions for private candidates. If you’re resitting only the written exams, your final grade will be based solely on those components. Always check the rules for your board.

Step 3: Register for the Exam

If your centre is managing the entry, they will handle the paperwork. If you are registering independently:

• Contact an exam centre well in advance

• Submit your previous candidate details and board information

• Provide ID and pay the required fees

Deadlines for entry are usually in February for summer exams. Some centres close registration earlier than the official deadline.

Step 4: Focus Your Preparation

Your second attempt should be guided by what you now know about your strengths and weaknesses. Use your previous mark breakdown if you can. If your NEA was the issue, focus on planning, development, and documentation. If exams were your weak point, revise theory topics using mark schemes and past papers:

• OCR past papers and examiner reports

• AQA past papers and examiner reports

Step 5: Sit the Exam (and Submit NEA, if Required)

Resits usually take place during the May/June exam series. Some private candidates are permitted to carry forward NEA marks. Others must submit new coursework. Confirm your NEA status with your centre early to avoid surprises.

Different Ways to Resit

Through a School or Sixth Form

This is the most straightforward route if your previous institution allows it. You’ll benefit from access to teaching, resources, and coursework support. However, this option is not always available if you’ve already moved on.

As a Private Candidate

You can register independently through an approved centre. You’ll need to handle your own revision and possibly resubmit your NEA. Some centres offer support with the NEA process, but this can be limited.

Through a College or Online Course

Colleges and online providers can offer structured lessons and tutor support, especially useful if you want more guidance than self-study allows. This route may involve fees, but it gives you a framework to follow.

Independent Study

If you’re confident in your ability to study alone, this is a flexible and low-cost approach. Use board-specific resources, revision books, online videos, and practice questions to guide your learning. If your NEA needs resubmitting, make sure your chosen centre supports this.

Strategies to Succeed in Your A Level Computer Science Resit

1. Analyse Your Previous Performance

If you can, get access to your examiner's feedback. Look at your NEA marks and the written exam components separately. Pinpoint where you lost marks and which questions you struggled with.

2. Rebuild Your Knowledge in Weak Areas

Focus on topics like Boolean algebra, data structures, databases, or algorithm design if those caused problems. Prioritise the areas with the highest weighting and those you scored least on.

3. Refine Your NEA (if Resubmitting)

Start early. Break the project into small milestones: planning, development, testing, and evaluation. Use mark schemes and exemplars to guide each section. Documentation and justification matter just as much as the code.

• OCR NEA guidance and marking criteria

• AQA NEA guidance and teacher resource bank

4. Practice Past Papers Under Exam Conditions

Get used to OCR or AQA's question styles and how mark schemes are structured. Practice full papers with time limits, and review your answers critically using examiner reports.

5. Create a Structured Study Plan

A long-term revision schedule will help you manage the content. Use spaced practice, mix theory with programming tasks, and schedule regular review sessions. Aim for consistency over intensity.

Resources and Support

• Teachers or tutors – If available, they can provide feedback and support with your NEA.

• Save My Exams – Has exam-style questions, revision notes and past papers for OCR.

• Exam Board Websites – Use for specifications, past papers, and reports:

  • OCR website

  • AQA website

• Online communities – Forums such as The Student Room are helpful for tips and motivation.

Other Considerations

Cost of an A Level Computer Science Resit

Fees vary by centre and whether the NEA is included. You can expect:

• Written papers only: £150 to £200

• Including NEA submission: £200 to £300+

Check carefully whether admin or marking fees apply.

Entry Deadlines

For May/June resits:

• Entry deadline: Mid-February

• NEA work is typically due by early May

• Confirm any internal deadlines with your centre

After the Resit

Step 1: Results Day

Results for A Levels are released in mid-August. Your centre will tell you how to access them.

Step 2: Reflect on the Outcome

Take time to understand how you performed this time. Whether you achieved your target or not, the resit experience gives you insight and growth.

Step 3: Use Your New Grade

Improved grades can help you meet university offers, apply for apprenticeships, or strengthen your CV. Resitting shows determination and resilience, qualities valued by admissions tutors and employers alike.

If you are planning a resit, you are already showing commitment. With targeted preparation and the right resources, your A Level Computer Science resit can be a real turning point.

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References

OCR Key Dates
OCR Fees
AQA Key Dates
AQA Fees
OCR website
AQA website