Do I Need Practical Endorsement for A Level Biology?
Do I Need Practical Endorsement for A Level Biology?
Created:Updated: 13-September-2025
If you’re thinking about taking A Level Biology as a private candidate or via distance learning, you may have heard about the “practical endorsement.”
But what is it — and do you really need it for your goals?
What is the Practical Endorsement?
The Practical Skills Endorsement is a separate certification that shows you’ve successfully completed a set of hands-on biology experiments under approved conditions.
It’s reported alongside your A Level grade as either Pass or Not Classified. It doesn’t change your written exam grade, but many science pathways value (or require) it.
Do I need the Practical Endorsement?
If you’re aiming for a science-related degree (e.g., Biology, Biomedical Science, Pharmacy, some Psychology/Neuroscience routes), universities often expect the endorsement as part of the standard offer.
If you’re not planning a science degree, you may not need it — but always check each course’s entry requirements.
UCAS: Check university entry requirements
How do I complete the Practical Endorsement?
- Book an approved centre: Private candidates complete the practicals at an exam centre or lab partner.
- Plan early: Places are limited and fees are separate from written exams.
- We’ll guide you: Study from Home provides support on finding and booking suitable centres.
JCQ: Find approved centres for private candidates
Frequently Asked Questions
What happens if I don’t do the Practical Endorsement?
You’ll still receive an A Level Biology grade, but your certificate will show Not Classified for practical skills — this may limit science-related university options.
Can I add the endorsement later?
In most cases, yes — you can complete the practicals at a later date and have the endorsement reported then.
How much does it cost?
Centres set their own fees; typical ranges are a few hundred pounds. Always confirm the latest pricing with your chosen centre. Read more about exam & practical fees
Is the endorsement examined in the written papers?
The written papers assess practical skills and data analysis, but the endorsement result itself is separate (Pass/Not Classified).