GCSE results day 2018: When is it, how to re-sit exams and what are the options for sixth form and college?

Hot on the heels of the A-Level results that were released last week, students across the UK will soon find out their all-important GCSE results.

This is the first year in which pupils will be graded by a number system as opposed to the traditional A*-G grading.

To avoid last minute panics (from both parents and kids) - here's everything you need to know about GCSE results day:

When is GCSE results day?

GCSE results will be released on Thursday 23 August 2018

How do I find out my GCSE results?

You will be able to collect your results from your school or college, but double check with your teachers about timings.

If you are not able to collect your GCSE results in person, you can request to receive them in the post or nominate a friend or family member to pick them up for you. You need to confirm this with your school in advance, though.

I didn't get the results I wanted - how do I apply to re-sit an exam?

For English and Maths, some resits will take place in November.

For other subjects, the earliest opportunity to resit will be in June 2019.

How can I appeal an exam mark?

If you think your mark is incorrect, you should consult a teacher as soon as possible who can talk you through the appeal process.

Exam papers which are sent for re-marking are usually judged based on one or more of these criteria: a basic check to make sure every answer has been marked and a review of the original marking by the senior examiner.

For coursework, the original marking is reviewed to make sure it was "fair and appropriate."

Prices for re-marking varies depending on exam board and some may even refund you the money if their grading was found to be incorrect.

You can visit the relevant exam board on their website to check this.

What's the difference between sixth form and college?

In a sixth form, you'll study your A-Levels in a school environment.

A college offers a different learning environment to sixth form as it's generally more relaxed and most likely doesn't have a dress code.

A college will offer a wide variety of vocational subjects such as business management and hairdressing and some colleges may also give you the option to study your A-Levels there.

Although it's likely you've already decided whether you've chosen college or sixth form, your results may influence that decision so make sure you talk to your teachers so they can advise on what's right for you.