Summer 2023 exam arrangements

Exams are due to go ahead this summer with a return to pre-pandemic arrangements, but there are some changes to reflect the disruption pupils have experienced. Understand the current plans for summer 2023.

Last reviewed on 22 December 2022
See updates
School types: All · School phases: All
Ref: 43435
Contents
  1. Exam arrangements are largely returning to how they were pre-pandemic 
  2. Some support is being kept in place
  3. Use the pre-pandemic standard for predicted grades
  4. You may need to gather assessment evidence throughout the year 

Exam arrangements are largely returning to how they were pre-pandemic 

Ofqual has confirmed that pre-pandemic grading has returned. Pupils will be examined on the full content of their courses and advance information about the contents of exams will no longer be available.

Non-exam assessment, fieldwork and practical science will follow pre-pandemic arrangements.

Adaptations to support vocational and technical qualifications (VTQs) made during the pandemic will also stop.

Grade boundaries will reflect pre-pandemic grades

As in any year, examiners will set grade boundaries after they've reviewed the work produced by pupils in their exams. 

However, their decisions will be guided by information about the grades achieved in pre-pandemic years, along with prior attainment data.

Some pupils will have retaken GCSE English language and/or maths in November 2022 – exam boards will align

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