GCSE Results not what you expected? Here's what to do next

If your GCSE results weren’t quite what you were hoping for, take a breath. It’s okay to feel disappointed, confused, or frustrated. But this is not the end of the road. There are still plenty of options ahead, and support is available to help you find the right path. 

Let’s walk through what you can do next. 

 

Don’t panic 

Right now, things might feel overwhelming. That’s totally normal. But remember, this moment will pass. Take some time to clear your head, talk to someone you trust, and give yourself space to think. Decisions are easier to make when you’re calm and focused. 

 

Option 1: Re-sit your GCSEs 

If you didn’t pass key subjects like English or Maths (Grade C or above), you’ll likely be required to re-sit them. Most colleges and sixth forms offer support for this, so don’t worry, you won’t be alone. 

You might also consider re-sitting other subjects if:

  • You just missed out on the grades you needed 
  • You’re aiming for a specific course or college that needs higher marks 

Talk to your school or college to explore what resit options are available and whether it’s the right move for you. 

 

Option 2: Ask for a re-mark 

Think your result doesn’t reflect how you performed? You can ask for a review of marking or a clerical re-check. This means someone will go over your paper again to check for errors or inconsistencies. 

Important: 

  • Requests must go through your school’s Exams Officer 
  • There’s a deadline, so don’t wait too long 
  • Marks can go up or down, so be sure before you apply 
 


Option 3: Re-apply somewhere else 

If your chosen sixth form or college has said no based on your results, that doesn’t mean all doors are closed. You might be able to:

  • Apply to a different college or sixth form that accepts your grades 
  • Start a different course that’s better suited to your current results 
  • Resit specific subjects alongside your new course 

Being flexible could open up new opportunities you hadn’t considered before. 

 

Ask for help 

You don’t have to figure this out alone. Speak to:

  • A teacher or career adviser at your school 
  • Your parents or carers 
  • The sixth form or college you want to attend 

They can guide you, explain your options, and help you choose what’s best for you. 


One set of results doesn’t define your future. It’s just one part of a much bigger journey. Whether you’re planning to re-sit, reapply, or take a new path entirely, there’s still time, and support, to figure it out. 

Whatever your next steps, know this: you’ve got options, and you’ve got people who want to help. 

You’ve got this.