A-Level Results Day & Clearing: Navigating the Unexpected with Confidence

13 Aug

Results day can be full of emotions – excitement, relief, anxiety, and sometimes disappointment. If you find yourself not quite meeting the grades for your firm or insurance choice, take a deep breath. This isn’t the end of your journey; it can be the start of an exciting new path. Many students discover fantastic opportunities they hadn’t considered before, and the clearing process can open doors to courses and universities you may never have looked at.

Keep Calm and See the Possibilities

Missing your grades can feel overwhelming in the moment, but it’s important to stay calm and focused. Clearing is not just a “last resort” – it’s a gateway to new opportunities. Universities have a wide range of courses still looking for motivated students, and you might find a course better suited to your interests and career goals than your original plan. You may even find a course that you were not able to apply for originally given your application grades, universities may accept lower grades than written on the website. Phone up and ask!"

Check University Websites and Get Ready to Call

Start by visiting the clearing pages of individual university websites. Each institution lists the courses available through clearing, and these lists can change throughout the day. Once you’ve identified courses that interest you, be prepared to pick up the phone – results day will likely involve making several calls to university admissions teams to discuss your options.

You Need to Make the Calls Yourself

While your parents can support you by helping to find phone numbers or even dial them for you, universities will expect to speak directly to you. Admissions tutors want to hear your enthusiasm and commitment firsthand. Make sure you have your UCAS ID, your exam results, and a phone with a good reception.

Understand Your Offers and Timeframes

When you speak to admissions teams, they may make you a verbal offer. Each university will set its own deadline for you to accept, and these can vary from just a few hours to a few days. Check whether they will arrange university accommodation as this could affect your decision. Keep a written list of the offers you receive, along with the time limits for acceptance, so you can make an informed decision without losing track of deadlines.

Take a Pause Before Deciding

After you’ve gathered your offers, take a break. Speak with your family, friends, or teachers who can help you weigh up the pros and cons of each option. While the day can feel rushed, it’s still important to give yourself space to think clearly before making your choice.