A-Level Results day is just around the corner: here are some last minute tips & advice:
Have your documentation ready
- Make sure you have your UCAS track number to hand. You will need this to log on and to check your results.
- If you are expecting to use “Clearing,” make sure you have your GCSE and AS-level results to hand as well as your A-Level results as universities will often ask for these when considering to offer you a place.
- If you are expecting to use “Clearing,” make a list of questions beforehand such as “What is the accommodation like?” “What module options are there” “What do I need to do next?” It is better to have these sort of questions prepared beforehand rather than thinking of them on the spot.
Have a shortlist of alternatives
- If your A-Level results are not as good as you hoped, it pays to have a list of alternative universities to hand so that you can call “Clearing” as soon as possible.
- If your results are better than expected, then you may be entitled to trade up using “Adjustment.”
- Remember that an increasing number of Russell Group universities are using Clearing, so research for courses with slightly lower entry requirements but still at a top institution. For example Ecology at university X may have lower entry requirements than Biology at the same university.
Stay calm and control your nerves
- Easier said than done, but try your best to remain calm. Avoid making decisions in a panic.
- Remember, these are just exams and it’s important to put their importance into perspective. There are plenty of alternative options aside from university in case the results do not go your way, for example apprenticeships, entrepreneurship, internships and non-graduate roles.
Rest and have an early night
- There will be nervous and stressful moments tomorrow so you need to be as fresh as possible to deal with any decisions you may have to make.
And finally have the champagne on ice…
- You have worked hard for these exams and you have now completed formal UK schooling. Think about all those hours spent in the library or working during the weekends. Celebrate and enjoy this moment; hopefully you now have the results which you worked so hard for.