The other day I was asked if I can help a family with registering their daughter to sit her GCSE English Language exam in November as an external student as she would be 17 by that time.

They live just outside Aylesbury, so these findings are focused on living in Buckinghamshire, however I think they will give you a starting point wherever you are based:

1. Look for an AQA-approved school or college in the UK willing to accept private candidates.

Be aware of the fact that this process may take some time, as not all schools/colleges accept private candidates. To find an AQA-approved school or college in Buckinghamshire that accepts private candidates:

Use the JCQ Online List: The Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ) provides an online list of schools and colleges that accept private candidates. You can search this list by postcode, qualification type, and awarding organisation. This will help you find local centres willing to enter students for the AQA exams.

Check AQA's Resources: AQA has a dedicated page for private candidates where you can find general information and a list of schools and colleges that may accept private candidates. This list is updated regularly, so it's worth checking back frequently.

Contact Local Schools: Reach out to schools and colleges in your area directly. Even if they are not listed as accepting private candidates, they may still be willing to accommodate you.

Consider Distance Learning Providers: If you encounter difficulties finding a suitable exam centre, consider using registered Distance Learning Providers (DLPs) that can assist with exam entries and may have arrangements with local schools for exam sitting.

2. It might also be worth reaching out to nearby schools or colleges

to inquire about their willingness to accommodate external candidates for the November 2024 AQA English Language GCSE exam.

3. Once you find a suitable exam centre,

they will guide you through their registration process. You'll be responsible for making the entry and paying the associated fees.

4. The exam centre will likely ask you for personal details,

identification, and any other relevant information to complete the registration.

5. Ensure you receive confirmation of the exam date, time, and location from the exam centre.

Be aware that the November series has age restrictions of being at least 16 years old on August 31st of the exam year.

Start this process well in advance of the exam date to ensure everything is in order.

The entry deadline for the November 2024 series (BG24) is October 4, 2024, with the very late entry deadline being October 25, 2024.

If you're having difficulty finding an exam centre, you might consider using a service like Pass My GCSE, which can help arrange everything for you, including finding a local exam centre.

However, be sure to verify any third-party service's credentials and fees before proceeding.

I hope this helps