GCSE results day 2023: What happens if you fail, how to appeal & when you can resit

As thousands of students throughout England and Wales pick up their GCSE results on Thursday, August 24, they will finally learn whether their months of hard work have paid off. However, some may be left disappointed if the outcomes aren’t what the students were hoping for.

After the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic, coupled with controversies and disruptions to learning including a series of strikes by teachers over a pay dispute with the government, this led to a significant number of students receiving unsatisfactory GCSE results.

But first things first, students need to remain calm if the results are not in their favour. Examination board WJEC said there are ways to appeal the grades or even resit their exams, which allows students to improve their grades and demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

WJEC said: “Results Day is a big day for learners, but it’s important to stay relaxed and to keep things in perspective.Whether you’re collecting your GCSE or A-level results – remember that you’ll have a range of options and pathways available to you, whatever your grades!”

Even if you have failed your GCSEs, many experts have said that this does not have to be the end of the world for children. According to a tutoring website, Tutorful, there are other options available. For instance, other than retaking the exams, they can also take an alternative qualification such as a BTEC or a vocational course.

Here’s what you can do if you’d like to appeal your grades or resit for the examinations, according to the Government website.