Terrible A-level results first time round. How detrimental?

[Sancb24]

For context:

My first sitting of A-levels: BDD

Resit the following year (dropped one subject, and picked up a new one): AAB

Undergraduate: 2:1 from RG uni

PGDL: Distinction (approx 74)

SQE: TBC

Work experience: Interneships at a MC and american firm

I had applied for TCs and VSs 2024, but was unsuccessful. I did not apply for 2025 as I had not improved on my application for that year, but have decided to apply again now since I have my PGDL results to show for.

My main question is, how detrimental will my first set of A-levels results be?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

For context:

My first sitting of A-levels: BDD

Resit the following year (dropped one subject, and picked up a new one): AAB

Undergraduate: 2:1 from RG uni

PGDL: Distinction (approx 74)

SQE: TBC

Work experience: Interneships at a MC and american firm

I had applied for TCs and VSs 2024, but was unsuccessful. I did not apply for 2025 as I had not improved on my application for that year, but have decided to apply again now since I have my PGDL results to show for.

My main question is, how detrimental will my first set of A-levels results be?

Hello!

Your first set of A-Level's shouldn't hold you back too much with most firms, especially since you have shown strong academic progression - going from resits (AAB) to a 2:1 from a Russell Group uni and a Distinction on the PGDL. Many firms focus on your final grades and overall trajectory rather than early results, and some firms won't have any minimum A-Level requirements at all!

You can briefly mention your resit to show honesty and resilience, but place the emphasis on your improvement, strong recent academics, and quality work experience at top firms. Given your overall strong academics, background, and work experience, I don't think they'll hold you back!

Best of luck with your applications this year!