Skip to Content

A Level Results

A Level results come out in mid-August, and it is a very important time for students. On results day, students should follow these steps:

1. Check results

Students usually collect their results from school or college. From the morning of results day, the UCAS Hub also shows whether their university places have been confirmed.

2. Think through the results

Depending on their A Level results, students will be in one of these situations:

  • Firm choice confirmed:
    If the student has met the conditions of their firm choice, their place is confirmed and they can enrol. They should then complete enrolment with the documents needed.
  • Firm choice not confirmed:
    If the student hasn't met the conditions of their firm choice but has met those of their insurance choice, they can take up a place there.

3. If results are lower than expected

If a student doesn't get the grades they expected, there are several options:

  • Use Clearing:
    Through Clearing, students can apply to universities that still have places. Universities list available places, and students can contact them directly to find a new course.
  • Plan a gap year:
    Students can take a year out and apply again the following year. During that time they can gain new experience, or resit exams to improve their grades.

4. Contact the universities

If students are unsure whether their place has been confirmed, they should contact the university directly. A university may still accept a student who narrowly missed the conditions, so it is worth checking with them.

5. Documents and enrolment

If the student has been accepted, they should prepare the documents needed to enrol:

  • Proof of identity
  • Qualifications and A Level results
  • Passport (for international students)
  • Financial details (student finance, scholarships etc.)

6. Finances

Students who have a place should sort out their finances, including tuition fees and accommodation. If they have applied for student finance or scholarships, these should be completed too.

7. Getting ready for university

Once results are confirmed, students should get ready for their new life. Key preparations include:

  • Accommodation (on or off campus)
  • Taking part in the university's welcome and induction events
  • Module choices and academic planning

8. Consider alternative plans

If the grades needed weren't achieved and there is no university place, it is important to look at alternative plans. These include:

  • Choosing a different course
  • Studying abroad
  • Other routes, such as degree apprenticeships, vocational training or work

A Level results day is an important turning point. After getting their results, students should make their plans, keep in touch with universities, and prepare for enrolment and finances. Handling this stage well lays the foundation for a successful university experience.