As anyone who has been through the UK education system will know only too well, A-Level results day is typically awaited with much anxiety and hope. Even if you fail to get the right grades required for university, all is not lost, as there are still options available.
Help After A-Level Results – Lower Grades
Despite getting lower grades than what was hoped for, it is still possible that the university of choice will accept them and thus it it is important to check through the Track service. The Track service simply requires the same username and password used for your UCAS application. When grades have only been very slightly missed, try phoning the university or college to speak directly about your situation with the admissions department.
Particularly in the case of mitigating circumstances around the exam time, such as illness or bereavement, the admissions service should take this into account. A doctor's letter will likely be required in such instances, or a letter from the school.
Missed Out on University Choices? – Try 'Clearing'
If you have missed out on your first university choice and insurance place, then it is well worth considering looking at alternative courses available at other institutions, through what is known as "Clearing." This system runs from mid-July through to mid-September, so even before results come out it may save time later to identify any back-up choices, should the grades not be as hoped for. Eligibility for Clearing will be clearly marked on the Track system and courses available will be shown on the UCAS website, as well as in national papers.
The best thing to do is to call the institutions offering the Clearing places which are of interest directly and have the clearing number ready, as this will be required. When acceptance has been confirmed, simply enter the details of the institution and course on the Track system.
A-Level Help and Advice – Call Exam Results Helpline
A really useful way of finding out exactly what options are available once A-level results are known is to call the Exam Results Helpline, which is a freephone number – 0808 100 8000. The helpline is open from A-Level Results Day (Thursday 19th August) until August 28th and are able to answer questions relating to courses, qualifications, student finance and provide advice on getting a job or taking some time out, such as doing a Gap Year.
For those who managed to achieve better grades than expected, there is a new UCAS adjustment service available. This provides students with the opportunity to look at other potential course choices, whilst still maintaining their original place should no other courses be appropriate.
A-Level Retakes – Alternative Option
Despite the thought of having another year of A-Levels not being very appealing, for those with absolute certainty about future careers, it may be the best option to retake and reapply through UCAS for the following year. Before making a decision to retake or resit exams, it is important to talk with parents, teachers and the admissions centre at your chosen university.
As highlighted above, there are still options available even if the grades received are not those which had been expected. Help is available from Tracks, UCAS, the Exam Results Helpline, teachers as well as from Connexions. Regardless of exam results, try not to let the situation cause anxiety and make sure you talk through your options with those there to help.
Source:
UCAS Website
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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