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What Happens If You're Sick During Your iGCSEs or A-Levels?

Writer's picture: Ginger MathematicianGinger Mathematician

The iGCSE and A-Level exams are crucial milestones in your academic journey. But what happens if you're sick during these exams? Let's explore some common scenarios and how you can navigate them.


Scenario 1: You're Sick But Still Take the Exam

Imagine this: You wake up on the day of your Maths exam with a fever and a pounding headache. You're not feeling your best, but you decide to take the exam anyway.    


In this situation, you might not perform as well as you would if you were healthy. But don't worry; there's a process called "special consideration."    


Special Consideration

Special consideration is a way for exam boards to take into account your circumstances when awarding your grade. If you were sick during the exam, your school can apply for special consideration on your behalf.    


The exam board will then review your application and decide whether to adjust your mark. The amount of adjustment varies depending on the severity of your illness and its impact on your performance, but in most cases it will be between 0 and 5% of the total marks for the component.    


Scenario 2: You're Too Sick to Take the Exam

Now, let's say you're so sick that you can't even make it to the exam hall. In this case, your school can again apply for special consideration, but the process is slightly different.    


The exam board may:

  • Calculate an assessed mark based on your performance in other components of the syllabus.    

  • Allow you to take the exam at a later date.    

  • Grant you an exemption from the exam if your illness is severe or long-term.   

     

Differences Between iGCSE and A-Level

The special consideration process is similar for iGCSE and A-Level, but there are a few key differences.

  • iGCSE: The exam board may be more lenient with iGCSE candidates, as they are typically younger and less experienced.

  • A-Level: A-Level exams are more specialized, so the exam board may have stricter requirements for special consideration.


Important Tips

  • Inform your school about your illness as soon as possible.    

  • Provide sufficient evidence to support your special consideration application (e.g., a doctor's note).    

  • Keep copies of all your documents.    

  • Communicate with your teachers and exams officer throughout the process.

       

Conclusion

Don't let illness derail your iGCSE or A-Level exams. Understand the special consideration process, communicate with your school, and focus on your recovery. With the right support, you can overcome these challenges and achieve your academic goals.




 
 
 

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