We know that waiting for results day can be an anxious time, but preparing as much as possible can be a big help. To make sure you’re ready for whatever happens, we have taken a look at possible scenarios and put together the following advice for the day.
Make sure you’re free.
It’s best to hold off on any plans with friends and family to ensure that you’re available on results day. UCAS won’t be able to speak to anyone other than yourself about your application details (unless you give someone nominated access to speak on your behalf). If you decide to apply to another university through Clearing, they’ll also want to speak to you directly.
No decision just yet?
If it gets to around mid-morning and there doesn’t appear to be a decision in the UCAS Hub, don’t panic. At this point it is best to call the university directly to check your status.
You’ve got your grades.
If you get the grades you need to meet your Firm offer then there are only three things you need to do. Wait for the UCAS Hub to update over the course of the day, read the confirmation email from your university, and, of course, go and celebrate!
You’ve done better than expected.
If your grades end up being better than expected and you exceed your offer (well done you), you may want to enquire about other courses with higher entry requirements at alternative universities. If you’d like to do this you need to self-release with UCAS which will enter you into Clearing where you can apply for a different university or course.
Your results aren’t what you were hoping for.
If you don’t quite get the grades you need for your university choices, they may still accept you, so don’t lose hope straight away.
Alternatively, they may offer you a place on a different course. This may be a course with slightly lower entry grades within a similar subject area, or a Foundation Year course. Foundation Years are for those who don’t have the necessary academic qualifications to enter directly onto an undergraduate course, but who display the ability and commitment required. When you successfully complete your Foundation Year, you will be able to progress onto the next year of your extended course.
If neither of those options are available, then it’s time to look at which universities still have courses that you’re interested in via Clearing. And don’t see this as a bad thing – Clearing is merely another way of applying for a place at university and there will be lots of great universities with places available. So, do some research, weigh up your options and pick up the phone.
Finally…
Whatever happens on results day, make the most of every opportunity that comes your way. There are always lots of fantastic options available to you.
Good luck on results day!
