What is the ‘triple lock’?
To put it simply, this process allows students who wish to query their calculated grades to appeal for their mock results to be used, or to re-sit exams in Autumn for university entry.
Our Approach
Yesterday we took hundreds of Clearing calls from applicants around the UK. We were happy to be able to make lots of offers, but for a large proportion of applicants there was uncertainty and disappointment around their calculated grades.
Our Clearing team were there to listen and to help. Many applicants were calling to see if they could get into university with their calculated grades, whilst also beginning the appeals process for their mock results to become their official results – a smart move. We recommend that you look into your options by researching universities that still have spaces available on the course or subject area you’re interested in, and contacting them to find out if they can offer you a place based on your grades as they currently stand.
Key Facts about the University of Chester and Offers
- If we make you an offer based on your current results, that offer stands for 48 hours. This is our usual procedure when it comes to making offers in Clearing.
- We are able to make you an offer based on your mock results and that offer stands until the 7th September. If the appeal is successful and your mock result becomes your official result, then that place is yours.
- If you held an offer from us prior to Clearing and you have not met the requirements but will be appealing your results, then we will be holding your place until September. Just keep in touch with us so we know where you’re up to with it.
The Appeals Process
We recommend that you get the ball rolling with the appeals process as soon as possible. The first step is to speak with your school or college. Once you’ve made them aware of your intention to appeal your results, they will need to provide evidence of your mock results to the exam board. You should know if your mocks have been successful by September.
Mock Exams
So, what counts as a valid mock? Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) will be providing clarification on this, but a key aspect is whether or not the mock took place under exam-like conditions. If it is deemed that the mock exams were not taken under conditions that meet the requirements for this, your school or college can submit other evidence on your behalf, such as coursework.
How are BTECs affected?
The appeals process for BTECs and vocational courses is yet to be confirmed and we recommend that you contact your school or college regarding this.
Welsh Government A Level Advice
The Minister for Education has confirmed that no student’s A level result will be lower than their AS level grade. If you're in Wales and you receive a final grade that is below that of your previous AS grade, then a revised grade will be issued automatically by WJEC. There’s more information here.
Year 12 AS level students in Wales
In Wales, as well as being stand-alone qualifications, AS levels also contribute to A level qualifications. This year’s AS students will still receive an AS grade. However, it will be calculated using a range of evidence, including teacher assessed grades. This also applies in Northern Ireland but does not apply in England.
Clearing at the University of Chester
Our Clearing team are here to help applicants navigate their way through this uncertain time. We have courses available in Clearing and are continuing to make offers throughout the Clearing period. Over the next few days, our lines will be open between:
Friday 14th August 8:00 – 19:00
Saturday 15th August 9:00 – 17:00
Sunday 16th August 10:00 – 16:00
Saturday 22nd August 9:00 – 17:00
In the weeks following, our lines will be open 9:00 – 17:30 Monday to Thursday, and 9:00 – 16:30 on a Friday.
You can contact us on:
T: 01244 567 470
You can also find out more about Clearing at the University and search our available courses on our Clearing info area.
Clearing will be open until 20th October, which is of course after the first term has started. We recommend that you try to secure a place at university before that, but the extra time is there if you need it.
