Which exams can I sit as an independent candidate?

As an independent candidate it is very difficult / pricey to sit exams that require coursework hence it is advisable to look for options that just involve written exams. In many cases this can mean International GCSEs. This page gives you an outline of possibilities with their pros and cons:

Find out more about IGCSEs here:

Where can I sit the exams?

In order to take an exam one has to register with an Exam Centre. It is advisable to find an Exam Centre and find out what exam you can sit there before you start studying a Subject, as you might have to change board / exam if they are not offering the exam you intended. You don’t have to register for the exam at this stage.

The Exam Center can be a school or an independent tuition organisation. Not all schools will take independent candidates but you can find a list of places worth checking here:

We have had great experiences with the Tutorial Foundation in Bromley. There are also various Tutors and Exam places, some of which can be found here.

When are exam sittings?

There are two sittings of (I)GCSE’s.

The main sitting takes place in May /June. This is when you can sit all subjects. Registration usually closes in January but for the popular subjects like English and Maths it is advisable to book in the Autumn term as places can be in high demand.

There is another sitting in November, intended for retakes. Independent candidates can take exams then too even if they are not retakes but there is only a limited number of Subjects available at this sitting and often the candidate needs to be 16 to be able to register for these exams. For November sittings you need to book at the beginning of September.

You don’t have to sit all (I)GCSE exams in one sitting but can stagger them over two or three sittings. A Levels, however, should be taken in the same sitting. If intending to go to University they often require this.

Access Arrangements?

This is possible but do check with the Exam Centre and make sure you book early in advance. More info here:

What are the costs?

Admin costs vary but I found generally the Total costs are around £100 per paper. Not each exam has the same amount of papers so some exams are more expensive than others.

For more information visit this link

How many GCSE’s should I be taking?

Generally you are required to take English Language and Maths GCSE’s. But any additional ones are up to you. Most College courses, apprenticeships and 6th forms ask for a minimum of 5 GCSEs. These are sometimes subjects related to the course you wish to take so it might be a good idea to check potential further education before deciding on subjects.