Exam results are expected to be lower this year. Not everyone will be happy with the grades they receive and may want to appeal, but there is a strict procedure and timetable for doing so.

The WJEC exam board, the board which covers most exams taken in Wales, charges between £11 and £55 for clerical re-check and post results review of marking/moderation while appeal hearings run into hundreds of pounds. The board advises candidates to first talk to staff at their school or college if they have questions about their results.

Candidates are warned that their results may go up, down or remain the same after an appeal. It is also quite an onerous process. Join our WhatsApp community group where you can get the latest stories delivered straight to your phone

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The first thing that happens if a school or college has questions about a candidate’s grades is that they request one of the WJEC’s “post results services’, but they can only do so with the candidate’s permission and by August 26 for this summer’s exams. Appeals can only be made after applying and getting one of the post results service to look back at what happened. These include:

• Access to scripts: The WJEC will provide the school/college with an electronic copy of the candidate’s exam papers.
• Review of marking: The WJEC will review marking to ensure it was marked accurately and in line with the mark scheme.
• Clerical re-check: A re-check to ensure that all marks have been included and added up correctly.

The WJEC exam board says on its website: “If your school or college believes that we have made an error in assessing your work, they can request a review on your behalf. If you are a private candidate, you can apply directly to us. Your grade could go up, go down, or stay the same following a clerical re-check or review of marking.”

If someone appealing is in a hurry because they are waiting for a university place a priority service is available. The deadline for submission is August 22 rather then August 26.

If, after a review of marking, a candidate’s school or college believes there is still an error, they can submit an appeal on behalf of the candidate. Private candidates can apply directly to the WJEC for an appeal but for others, appeal outcomes will be sent to the candidate’s school.

Who can make an appeal?

➢ The head of centre on behalf of candidates entered at their centre.

➢ A private candidate can submit an appeal although it is recommended they seek advice and guidance from their entering centre

What action will WJEC take after an appeal application?

Appeal applications will be acknowledged within five working days of receipt. A senior officer who has not previously been involved with the case will consider if the appeal was received within the deadline, was submitted by the appropriate person, includes specific information and evidence and whether the post results service has been requested and completed.

If any of the four conditions are not met, the appeal will not be accepted.

More information on exam results appeals can be found on the WJEC website here.