A Level Results Day can feel like the most important day of your life. After two years of hard work, revision, coursework, and exams, all eyes are on those grades. For many, the results bring joy and relief. But what if things didn’t go to plan?

If you didn’t get the A level grades you needed for university, don’t panic. You are not alone – and you still have options.

In this blog, we’ll walk you through what to do next, how to explore your choices, and how to move forward with confidence – even if your results were disappointing.

 

Check UCAS Track First

 

The first thing to do is to log in to UCAS Track. Even if your grades are lower than expected, your university may still have accepted you.

Universities often make decisions based on more than just your results. For example, they might still offer you a place if:

1. You only just missed the grade requirements

2. There’s space on the course

3. You’ve got a strong personal statement or reference

If your place is confirmed – congratulations!

You can now begin preparing for uni life.

If your place is not confirmed – don’t worry.

There are still plenty of options available, including Clearing, gap years, and alternative pathways.

 

Understand Why You Didn’t Get the Grades

 

Take some time to reflect on what happened. Was it exam nerves? Illness? Did one subject bring all your grades down?

This isn’t about beating yourself up – it’s about figuring out your next steps. Understanding where things didn’t go to plan can help you decide whether to:

1.Accept a place through Clearing

2. Resit one or more subjects

3. Consider an alternative route into university or work

 

What Is Clearing and How Does It Work?

 

What is UCAS Clearing?

Clearing is a system that allows students who didn’t get their original offers to find university courses that still have spaces available.

 

Who is Clearing for?

 

You’re eligible for Clearing if:

You didn’t meet your firm or insurance offer

You didn’t receive any offers

You declined all your offers

You applied after 30 June

 

How to use Clearing:

 

1. Search for courses via the UCAS Clearing tool
2. Make a shortlist of courses that interest you
3. Call the universities directly – they’ll often make verbal offers over the phone
4. Add your chosen course in UCAS Track

 

Universities are used to helping students through Clearing – you won’t be judged for calling. In fact, your confidence and initiative will help make a strong impression.

 

Consider a Similar Course at a Different University

 

If you’ve missed the grades for your dream course or university, all is not lost. You might still find a very similar course at another university through Clearing.

For example:

a) If you applied for Psychology at one university and missed the grades, you might find a similar course elsewhere with slightly lower requirements.

b) If you were aiming for a highly competitive course like Law or Medicine, there may be related subjects (like Criminology or Biomedical Science) that you can study and then specialise later on.

Keep an open mind – many students end up happier at a university they hadn’t originally considered.

 

Look into Foundation Year Courses

 

Some universities offer a foundation year as part of a degree course. These are designed for students who don’t quite meet the entry requirements but show potential.

You’ll complete a preparatory year before moving onto the full undergraduate course. Foundation years can be a fantastic way to get back on track, and they’re often still eligible for full student finance support.

 

Consider Taking a Gap Year

 

If nothing feels right through Clearing, or if you simply need more time to decide, a gap year might be your best move.

What you can do during a gap year:

 

Retake one or more A levels to improve your grades

Gain work experience or internships

Volunteer locally or abroad

Travel (if it’s financially possible)

Reapply to university with a stronger application

 

Many students find a gap year helps them gain maturity, confidence, and clarity about their future.

 

What If You Want to Resit Your A Levels?

 

You can choose to resit one or more A levels if you’re determined to get the grades needed for your chosen course.

Things to consider:

1. Speak to your school or a local college to arrange resits

2. You can study independently or work with a tutor

3. Resits usually take place the following summer (May/June)

4. You may only need to retake specific exam papers

This path requires commitment – but if you’re motivated, it can be well worth it. Students who resit often go on to achieve far better grades the second time around.

 

Could an Apprenticeship Be Right for You?

 

University isn’t the only way forward. A higher apprenticeship or degree apprenticeship allows you to earn a salary while training in a real job and working towards a qualification.

Sectors offering apprenticeships include:

 

Business and finance

Digital and IT

Healthcare

Engineering

Law

 

Many of these apprenticeships are equivalent to a full degree – and they often come with zero tuition fees.

You can search for current vacancies on the gov.uk apprenticeships site.

 

Talk to Someone Before You Decide

 

Don’t feel you need to make all these decisions on your own. There are lots of people who can help you talk it through and weigh up your options.

Speak to:

 

Your school or college’s careers adviser

UCAS support team

The National Careers Service (free advice available online and by phone)

University admissions teams

 

It’s OK to ask questions. No one expects you to have it all figured out overnight.

 

Don’t Compare Yourself to Others

 

Results Day can be overwhelming – especially when friends or social media posts make it seem like everyone else got into their dream university. But everyone’s path is different.

Your route may look a little different, but that doesn’t make it any less valid or meaningful. You’re still on track to build a successful and fulfilling future.

 

This Isn’t the End – It’s Just a Detour

 

It might not feel like it today, but missing out on your university offer doesn’t mean your dream is over. Many students have been in your shoes and gone on to achieve more than they ever imagined.

Take your time, explore your options, and remember: your A level results are part of your journey, not the final destination.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I still go to university if I didn’t get the grades?

Yes – many universities will accept students through Clearing, foundation courses, or gap-year reapplications.

Should I apply through Clearing or take a gap year?

It depends on how you feel about your options. If something in Clearing excites you, go for it. If not, a gap year can help you regroup and reapply stronger.

Can I get student finance for a foundation year?

Yes – foundation years that are part of a degree course are eligible for student loans, just like a standard undergraduate degree.