November GCSE Maths Resits: Everything You Need to Know

For students needing to retake their GCSE maths exam, November presents the next opportunity. Whether you’re aiming for a grade 4 (the standard pass) to move on with your studies or you’re looking to improve your current grade, this guide will help you understand the key details and what to expect for your maths resit.

Why Resit GCSE Maths?

A grade 4 in maths is considered a standard pass and is required for many A-level courses, vocational programmes, and apprenticeships. If you didn’t achieve this grade, you'll need to resit the exam to continue with your educational plans. Even if you've passed but want a better grade, the November resits offer a second chance.

Key Dates for November 2024 Maths Resits

• Entry Deadline: Friday, 4 October 2024

• Mathematics Paper 1 (Non-calculator): Wednesday, 6 November 2024

• Mathematics Paper 2 (Calculator): Friday, 8 November 2024

• Mathematics Paper 3 (Calculator): Monday, 11 November 2024

• Results Released to Students: Thursday, 9 January 2025

Make sure to note these dates and plan your revision timetable accordingly!

Do I Have to Pay for the Resit?

• If you did not achieve a grade 4: You won’t have to pay for the resit.

• If you achieved a grade 4 or higher and want to improve your grade: You may need to cover the exam fee, so check with your school or exam centre.

What Happens if My Resit Grade is Lower?

One of the common concerns for students is the fear of doing worse on the resit than in their original exam. Luckily, this is not something you need to worry about. If your resit grade is lower, you can keep your original, higher grade. The highest grade from your attempts is the one that counts.

What Are the Resit Exams Like?

The resit exam papers are marked just like the summer exams, with the same topics covered. However, the grade boundaries are set slightly differently. Since the November cohort is typically smaller and doesn’t have the same mix of abilities as the summer series, the exam boards put more emphasis on comparing papers to the previous summer series when setting the boundaries.

In terms of content, make sure you’re familiar with the core topics, including:

• Algebra

• Statistics

• Number and place value

• Geometry

• Proportions, ratios, and percentages

How Can You Prepare?

Resitting maths can feel stressful, but with the right preparation, you can boost your confidence and improve your score. Here are some tips to help:

1. Create a Revision Plan: Plan your study sessions so you can review each topic thoroughly. Focus more time on areas where you feel less confident.

2. Practice Past Papers: Get hold of past exam papers and practice under timed conditions. This will help you become familiar with the structure and type of questions you’ll face.

3. Focus on Weak Areas: Identify topics that you struggled with in the original exam. Whether it's algebra, geometry, or another topic, focus on practising these areas.

4. Use Online Resources: There are plenty of online resources, such as video tutorials, practice questions, and revision guides that can support your learning.

5. Seek Help: If you're struggling with certain areas, consider getting extra help. A tutor can offer tailored support to ensure you’re ready for the exam.

Final Thoughts

November maths resits offer you a crucial second chance to achieve the grade you need. Don’t be discouraged if you didn’t get the result you were hoping for in the summer – use the next few weeks to prepare, focus on your weak areas, and get the support you need to succeed.

If you’re preparing for your maths resit and want some extra help, I offer personalised tutoring tailored to your needs. Together, we can work on the topics you find challenging and get you ready to tackle the exam with confidence.