University resits are a second chance for students who have experienced academic difficulties. Typically resit exams are sat during the summer break.

But while resits are available to all eligible students, the ability to engage with them is influenced by broader inequalities.

When students fail assessments, the conversation typically shifts towards personal responsibility. The assumption is that students need to work harder or manage their time more effectively to bounce back.

However, this way of thinking can oversimplify a much more unequal experience. Bouncing back from educational adversity, called academic resilience, is linked to wellbeing. Less resilient learners are more likely to suffer the negative cognitive effects of adversity.

By focusing only on individual resilience, universities risk overlooking the inequalities that determine who can make the most of their second chance.

Unequal circumstances

Students with stable housing, family financial support and access to quiet study spaces are better positioned to focus on revision over the resit period.

On the other hand, many students will have a different experience. Some........

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