Results day 2025: Your UCAS points and what comes next

If you don't get your grades, or have changed your mind about your course, Clearing could be for you. We've got lots of advice about how to apply through Clearing and people who can help you, but here's some quick insights:

What is Clearing?

Clearing is a process that can match you with available university places after you receive your exam results. If you don't have a confirmed university place, you can search for courses that accept applications through Clearing, contact universities, and secure an offer. For detailed guides and step-by-step assistance, visit our Clearing pages.

Stay informed and ahead of the game

It's important to make informed decisions about your university journey - especially if you're worried that your A-level results and other qualifications might not be as expected.

Make sure to register for updates, attend open days and events, and check out the universities' social media profiles.

We understand you've probably a few questions about how your exam results might impact your university application. Here's some more useful information.

• How do predicted grades affect my university application if final exams are disrupted?

  If final exams are disrupted, universities may rely on predicted grades and might require additional assessments, so stay updated with announcements from exam boards and universities.

• What should I do if my exam results exceed my firm offer?

  Congratulations, your place will be confirmed by your firm choice university.

  If you decide to explore other options, think about the following:

  • Do your research into the course and university that interests you
  • Call the university first to ask if they would make you an offer in Clearing.
  • Check the deadline to accept the Clearing offer
  • Make sure you are certain that the new course is the right choice for you.
  • Think about your reasons for changing course – higher entry requirements may mean different course content or assessment methods
  • Once you have secured a verbal offer in Clearing, you can select the ‘Decline my place’ option in your UCAS Hub – this means you will no longer hold an offer for your original firm choice university and will cancel any arrangements you have with them.
  • You will then need to accept your Clearing offer formally via your UCAS Hub

• Can I use a mix of different qualifications (e.g., A-levels and BTECs) to meet entry requirements?

  Yes, you can often combine different qualifications to meet entry requirements, but you should check the specific criteria and contact admissions if unsure.

• How can I appeal my exam results if I believe there's been a mistake?

  To appeal your exam results, consult your school to initiate the process, be mindful of deadlines and fees, and inform universities as it may affect your application.

• How are A-level grades determined?

  Grades in A-levels are determined by factors such as performance in exams, assessments, coursework, and grade boundaries set by the exam board.

• Where can I find my A-level results?

  You can typically get your results on results day from your school or college and in some cases you can even get them texted to you.

• What should I do next after receiving my A-level results?

  After receiving your A-level results, you may need to apply for university, go through Clearing, or consider other options like an apprenticeship.

• How can I improve my grades if they are lower than expected?

  If your grades are lower than expected, you may have the option to retake your A-levels or appeal any grades if you believe there was an error in grading.

• What time are A-level results usually released?

  You can find out what time your A-level results are released by checking with your school or exam board beforehand.

• What is a Statement of Results?

  A Statement of Results is an official document that shows your A-level grades and qualifications.

• What options do I have if I want to pursue a different course with my A-level results?

  If you wish to pursue a different course than originally planned, you may need to update your choices on results day or consider alternatives through Clearing.

Find encouragement and practical insights from current students who successfully navigated Clearing and are thriving on their current course with us..