What to do if A-level results aren't as expected

IT can be challenging not knowing what to do if you didn’t get the grades you had hoped for in your A Levels, so here are a few options you can consider when making a decision for your next steps.

It can be overwhelming opening exam results so it can help by going somewhere quiet such as going for walk where you can figure out next steps with a clear head. It’s important to still give yourself credit for all the hard work put into the exams already taken as there is always another alternative.

If you were close to the grades required and if what you are wanting to do requires you to have specific grades, resitting an exam might be the best choice.

Speak to your teacher to seek their opinion on this option available, they might also offer extra support to get you through the exam resit.

If you were close to the grade boundary you might be able to get your paper remarked but it's important to note that marks can go up or down and there are deadlines to get the marks re- checked.

Speak to the teacher of this subject and see if they would recommend this option.

If you didn’t get into your chosen university, clearing might be the option for you.

Clearing is a system universities use to fill any remaining places on their undergraduate courses

For more information click here.

After several years of study, a gap year might just be the right option to build experience in other areas whether that’s travelling, work experience or even just taking a break after the hard work put into academic studies.

An option to reapply to university might be the option for you at a later date once you have a clearer understanding of the decision you would like to make whilst allowing yourself to make a more confident decision and avoid making a hasty choice.

It can be challenging not knowing what your next steps might be so try speaking to loved ones as they will be there to reassure you and could potentially support you in making your next steps.