Can You Still Get Into Medicine or Law After Retaking A Levels? Yes, Here’s How
Many students worry that retaking A levels might prevent them from pursuing competitive degrees like Medicine or Law. In reality, it is absolutely possible to gain entry to these courses after a retake, and many students do, as long as there is a clear, strategic plan and a strong support system in place.
Top universities understand that academic journeys are rarely straightforward. They assess applicants on more than just grades; they also look for resilience, personal growth, and determination, qualities that students often develop in abundance during the retake process. A well-planned retake year can demonstrate not only improved academic performance but also maturity, perseverance, and the ability to overcome challenges. These are exactly the attributes that admissions tutors value, especially in demanding fields like Medicine, Law, and other competitive pathways.
Understanding University Policies
The first step is to research how different universities view A level retakes. Some medical and law schools accept applicants who have retaken, especially if there is a clear reason for the initial grades and a significant improvement.
It’s important to know that not all institutions treat retakes the same way. Some may require higher grades from retake students, while others may ask for an explanation in the personal statement. Knowing this in advance helps shape a realistic and targeted application strategy.
Ashbourne College provides expert UCAS guidance and works closely with students to choose the right universities and courses, taking all of this into account.
Building a Strong Academic Profile
To be competitive, students need more than just improved grades, they need to show growth. This means achieving top results in retake exams and demonstrating a stronger, more mature academic approach.
Ashbourne’s one-year A-level retake programme is built to support this. With small classes, personal tutoring, and structured mock weeks each half term, students can track their progress consistently and work with teachers who focus not only on content, but also on exam technique and confidence-building.
The emphasis is on strategy, not repetition. Retake students are taught to think analytically, approach questions efficiently, and meet top-grade criteria with clarity.
Strengthening the Application Beyond Grades
For Medicine or Law, the application involves more than A levels. Retake students must still sit admissions tests like the UCAT, or LNAT, and often attend interviews.
Ashbourne offers tailored preparation for these stages. Students practise under timed conditions, receive individual feedback, and participate in mock interviews. This academic and personal development helps retake students stand out, not just as candidates who improved their grades, but as individuals who grew in resilience and capability.
Explaining the Retake Year
Applicants retaking A levels are often expected to address the reasons behind their decision, whether in their personal statement, an interview, or both. With the right wording, this explanation can become a powerful strength rather than a weakness. It demonstrates maturity in recognising when change is needed, self-awareness in identifying areas for improvement, and commitment to achieving ambitious goals.
At Ashbourne, students receive dedicated one-to-one support to craft personal statements that are honest, confident, and focused on their progress. Every aspect is carefully framed to highlight resilience, determination, and growth. Retaking is never presented as a failure, instead, it is positioned as a deliberate and strategic choice to meet a higher standard and unlock greater opportunities. This positive narrative not only reassures admissions tutors but also helps students approach their applications with renewed confidence.
Remember
It is entirely possible to study Medicine or Law after retaking A levels. What matters most is not the fact of the retake itself, but how students approach it. With targeted preparation, a clear understanding of each university’s admissions policies, and consistent academic support, applicants can achieve both the grades and the confidence they need to stand out.
At Ashbourne, we have guided many students through this journey, from initial uncertainty to securing places on some of the most competitive courses in the UK and abroad. Our tailored teaching, expert university guidance, and supportive learning environment help students turn a challenging setback into a springboard for success. With the right strategy, resilience, and determination, a retake year can become one of the most transformative experiences in a student’s academic life, and the first step towards achieving their dream career.
1. Can I study Medicine or Law if I retake my A levels?
Yes. Many universities accept students who have retaken A levels, provided they show strong improvement and clear reasons for their retake. With the right preparation, it’s possible to secure a place on highly competitive courses.
2. Do medical and law schools accept A level retakes?
Some do, though policies vary by university. Certain institutions may require higher grades or an explanation of why you retook, while others are more flexible. Researching each university’s admissions policy is essential.
3. How does Ashbourne support students retaking A levels?
Ashbourne offers small classes, personal tutoring, and structured mock weeks to track progress. Students also receive tailored UCAS support, admissions test practice, and interview preparation to strengthen applications.
4. Is retaking A levels seen as a weakness by universities?
No. When explained well, a retake year demonstrates resilience, determination, and growth. Many admissions tutors view it as evidence of maturity and commitment to academic success.