Crossword Genius

Unpleasant experience, getting low grades in exam (6)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

ordeal

'unpleasant experience' is the definition.
(I've seen this before)

'low grades in exam' is the wordplay.
'low grades' becomes 'de' (I've seen this in other clues).
'in' is an insertion indicator.
'exam' becomes 'oral' (oral exam is a kind of exam).
'de' going into 'oral' is 'ORDEAL'.

'getting' acts as a link.

(Other definitions for ordeal that I've seen before include "Loader (anag.)" , "Severe or trying experience" , "One may be difficult" , "Ancient form of trial" , "Horrible experience" .)

I've seen this clue in The Telegraph.
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