Guide to Transferring Sixth Forms in Year 13

Is it possible to transfer sixth forms at the end of Year 12?

Yes, transferring sixth forms after completing Year 12 is possible. Whilst not all institutions accommodate this, Edgbaston College offers a Transfer Into Year 13 course. The process can come with some challenges but many students successfully make the transition for various reasons:

  • Enhanced Career Support: Seeking expert-guidance from colleges that offer exceptional career services can be a significant motivator. At Edgbaston College, our exceptional career support is a reason why a handful of students join us every year, especially when career support matters most during Year 13.
  • Relocation: Moving house might necessitate finding a new educational setting closer to your new home.
  • Desire for a New Environment: You may be unhappy in your current setting and wish for a fresh start, perhaps in a place with smaller class sizes and a more supportive atmosphere.

 

How can it be done?

To ensure a seamless transfer, consider the following steps:

  • Exam Boards Compatibility: Verify that the prospective college uses the same exam boards to avoid discrepancies in coursework.
  • Syllabus Alignment: Understand how the new institution follows the syllabus to ensure continuity in your studies.
  • Assess Academic Performance: Reflect on your current academic standing to determine how a transfer might impact your progress.

Institutions experienced in handling such transitions can provide invaluable assistance. Edgbaston College, for example, has been running its Transfer into Year 13 course for many years and is adept at making the process as smooth as possible. If you’re considering this step and meet our academic requirements, feel free to email or call us to arrange a discussion to see if transferring into Year 13 is the right fit for you.

 

What are the alternatives?

If staying at your current institution isn’t an option and transferring directly into Year 13 isn’t feasible, restarting your A-Levels from Year 12 could be a viable alternative. While this means extending your studies by a year, it offers several benefits:

  • Subject Flexibility: The opportunity to swap subjects, which is beneficial if you’ve decided on a different university course.
  • Academic Renewal: A chance for a fresh start if you’ve fallen behind academically.
  • Stronger Foundations: Reinforcing your Year 12 knowledge can lead to better results in the long run.

 

Will universities view this negatively?

Transferring into Year 13

No, universities generally do not penalise students for transferring sixth forms. If you transfer directly into Year 13, you still complete your A-Levels within the standard two-year timeframe, so there is no disadvantage.

 

Resitting Year 12 or Year 13

For very competitive courses such as those at Oxbridge, LSE, or in Medicine and Dentistry, resitting a year may be viewed less favourably. However, colleges like Edgbaston College can support you in highlighting any extenuating circumstances to help alleviate potential disadvantages with universities. Most institutions are understanding, especially when valid reasons are communicated effectively.

 

How can Edgbaston College Help

Considering your options at the end of Year 12 can be challenging making an informed decision about transferring sixth forms requires careful consideration of your personal circumstances and academic goals. Edgbaston College has been helping students with such transfers for years and is well-experienced in making the process as smooth as possible. Feel free to contact us call us or fill out the online enquiry form and we will get in touch as soon as possible to see how we can be of any assistance. 

+44 (0)121 306 0182

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