Herexamen

Herexamen is a term used in education to describe a formal retake examination offered to a student who did not achieve a passing grade on a previous assessment, or who wishes to improve their score. It is typically distinct from ongoing coursework or optional assignments, though in practice retake policies may require the completion of remedial work or attendance in additional preparation sessions before the exam.

The procedure and eligibility for a herexamen vary by country, institution, and exam board. Common requirements include being enrolled in the course, meeting deadlines for registration, and sometimes completing designated remedial activities or counseling. Retakes may be offered in written, oral, or practical formats, and may occur during a defined window within the same academic year or in a subsequent term. Some systems limit the number of attempts a student may make and may charge a fee for the retake.

Outcomes of a herexamen differ by policy. In some contexts the retake result replaces the original grade, in others the higher of the two scores is kept, or the retake may be averaged with the prior attempt. Policies also vary on how a retake affects progression, graduation, or degree requirements. In many systems, a retake is intended to provide a second chance while maintaining academic standards.

Impact and considerations: herexamens can improve completion rates and student learning by addressing gaps, but they can also introduce stress, time pressure, and financial costs. Schools often balance accessibility with fairness by standardizing formats, deadlines, and eligibility criteria to ensure consistent assessment practices. See also: make-up exam, supplementary examination, exam policy.