Home-Educated Students
Students educated at home who need to sit formal qualifications to progress to further education, employment, or university. We provide a fully accredited exam environment with all the support you need.
Private Candidates
Sit GCSE, IGCSE & A-Level Exams as a Private Candidate in London
A private candidate is anyone who sits a public examination independently — without being registered at a school or college as a current student. London Exam Centre is a JCQ-approved exam centre that specialises in supporting private candidates of all backgrounds, from home-educated students and adult learners to international candidates and those retaking qualifications.
We handle all entry administration, provide a calm and professional exam environment, and offer dedicated support throughout the entire process — from your first enquiry to results day.
Register as a Private CandidateAdult & Mature Learners
Adults returning to education to improve qualifications, change careers, or meet professional requirements. We welcome candidates of all ages and provide a respectful, professional environment.
International Candidates
Students based overseas or recently arrived in the UK who need to sit UK qualifications. We support IGCSE and GCE O-Level entries through Cambridge International and Edexcel for international learners.
Resit Candidates
Students who did not achieve their target grade and need to resit one or more subjects. We support resits across GCSE, IGCSE, and A-Level with clear entry guidance and flexible scheduling.
School Leavers
Students who have left school without completing all required qualifications and need to sit additional subjects independently. We provide a straightforward registration process and full exam-day support.
University Applicants
Candidates who need specific grades or qualifications to meet university entry requirements, including A-Level Practical Endorsement for science degree applications.
What Does Being a Private Candidate Mean?
As a private candidate, you are responsible for finding and registering with an approved exam centre — your school or college will not do this for you. You must contact the centre directly, submit your entry, pay the required fees, and ensure you meet all deadlines set by the exam board.
London Exam Centre makes this process as straightforward as possible. Our team guides you through every step, from choosing the right exam board and series to confirming your timetable and preparing for exam day. We are experienced in supporting candidates who are navigating the private entry process for the first time.
Once registered, you will receive a confirmation with your exam timetable, centre address, and all the information you need for exam day. Our invigilators are JCQ-trained and our facilities are fully compliant with all exam board requirements.
Private Candidate Checklist
- Choose your subject and exam board
- Confirm the exam series (May/June or Nov)
- Contact London Exam Centre early
- Submit your registration form
- Pay the exam fee to confirm entry
- Apply for access arrangements if needed
- Receive your exam timetable confirmation
- Arrive on exam day with valid photo ID
Frequently Asked Questions – Private Candidates
Do I need to be enrolled at a school to sit exams?
No. As a private candidate, you can sit GCSE, IGCSE, and A-Level exams independently through an approved exam centre like London Exam Centre. You do not need to be enrolled at a school or college.
What ID do I need to bring on exam day?
You will need to bring valid photo identification on exam day — a passport, driving licence, or school/college ID card is acceptable. Our team will confirm the exact requirements when you register.
Can I sit multiple subjects in the same series?
Yes. You can register for multiple subjects in the same exam series. Our team will provide you with a full timetable showing all your exam dates and times once your entries are confirmed.
What happens if I miss my exam?
If you are unable to attend an exam, please contact us as soon as possible. In some circumstances, a medical certificate or other evidence may allow for special consideration. Fees are generally non-refundable once entries have been submitted.
Can I get extra time or other access arrangements?
Yes. If you have a learning difficulty, disability, or medical condition that affects your performance in exams, you may be eligible for access arrangements. These must be applied for before the entry deadline with supporting documentation.
How do I receive my results?
Results are issued by the exam board on the official results day. We will advise you on how to access your results and provide guidance on the enquiries about results (EAR) process if you wish to query a grade.
Ready to register as a private candidate?
Start Your Registration
Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process.
Important Exam Resources
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Accepted Examination Boards
We officially accept candidates from the following examination boards.
JCQ Approved
Google Rating 4.9/5 ★★★★★
10,000+ Candidates Supported
Stratford, East London
