Ofqual reassures university applicants – A level results will be fair
Friday, 13 August 2010 14:57
With A level results out next week and increased competition for university places this year, Ofqual has today reassured A level candidates that their grades will be fair.
Chief Executive Isabel Nisbet said: "Our priority has been to ensure fairness for each candidate, including those aiming for the new A* grade.
"It is our role to make sure that standards are maintained and that the results are awarded fairly.
"Only those who perform exceptionally in the A2 papers will get the new A* grade. We will apply that standard rigorously. But those who do meet that demanding challenge can be rightly proud of their achievement.
"Whatever grades candidates achieve, they can be confident that they have not been unfairly disadvantaged, or advantaged, because they took their exam with one board and not another.
"We know things are tough for candidates this year with increased competition for university places. It is important that they, and universities and prospective employers, know that the results are an accurate record of achievement and have been awarded on a playing field level for all.
"We have worked hard with the awarding bodies to make sure that is the case."
A level results will be announced on Thursday (August 19). This year sees some significant changes to A levels, with the introduction of the new A* grade and new style exam papers.
The A* grade will be awarded to candidates who achieve an A grade overall and score 90 per cent or more of the overall marks in their A2 papers.
Ofqual has been working with its regulatory partners in Wales and Northern Ireland and the awarding bodies for two years to prepare for the awards this summer.
More information about the changes to A levels this summer and the work done to maintain standards can be found at http://www.ofqual.gov.uk/news-and-announcements/151/341
Notes to editors:
- For more information or to arrange an interview with Ofqual Chief Executive Isabel Nisbet, contact the press office on 0300 303 3342 or 07798 924552.
- Isabel Nisbet will be available for media interviews on A level results day (Thursday, August 19). Contact the numbers above to make arrangements.
- Ofqual is the independent regulator of qualifications, examinations and assessments in England and vocational qualifications in Northern Ireland.
