Appeals are expected to rise this summer, after one of the major examination boards has made it possible for schools to download all A-level and GCSE scripts for free.

On results day, thousands of pupils who are unhappy with their grade will be able to log on to Edexcel website straight away and download a copy of their marked exam script to inspect where they have been marked down.

The move comes as sweeping changes to public exams will take effect for the first time this summer.

Pupils receiving their A-level results on Thursday completed the first set of the new “linear” syllabuses, which involve less coursework and a move away from modular exams.

Meanwhile, students will collect their marks for GCSEs later this month under the new system of numerical grades. English literature, English language and Maths will be graded from one to nine, but the other subjects will still be marked using the old A* to G grades.