What to do in different circumstances, depending on your exam results.

What to do next

Here you can see what to do in different circumstances, depending on:

  • if you're still waiting for your application to be updated
  • if you didn't get the results you needed to get your place confirmed
  • if you've been accepted on to one of your choices

Who to contact for help 

Unexpected grades?

If the grades you received this year aren’t what you had hoped for, don’t worry – there are plenty of options available to you. The first thing you should do is speak to your teacher or adviser, who will be able to help you explore these options and understand your next steps.

You could:

  • speak to the university or college: They may be flexible, especially if you only narrowly missed your offer
  • appeal your grade: You’ll need to discuss this with your school or college – but it shouldn't stop you from researching opportunities in Clearing
  • apply through Clearing: If you find yourself in Clearing this year, you can use the ‘View matches’ button in your application to see courses we’ve personally matched you to. Or, if you want to apply for something different, you can use our search tool to browse thousands of courses available in Clearing. Find out more about Clearing
  • explore apprenticeshipsEarn a salary while you study and have your course fees paid by your employer and the Government. Visit our apprenticeship hub to find out more and look for vacancies
  • consider your alternative optionsLike taking a gap year or going straight into the world of work. We’ve got lots of information about the different options available to you

Still waiting?

Don't worry if you're still waiting for a uni or college decision to be updated in your application.

  • The uni or college will update your application when they've seen all your results.
  • They have a lot of applications to update though, so it might take some time.
  • In some cases it might be that your results haven't come through yet.

More about waiting for decisions

Requesting a review or appeal?

If you missed your conditions, you might decide to request a review or an appeal.

  • Talk to your school or college, as they will be able to support you through this process.
  • Apply for the review or appeal as soon as possible, and let your uni or college know what's happening.
  • Send the outcome of your appeal to your uni or college choices as soon as you receive them. Most uni and colleges will need these by 7 September, but this may vary and your individual choice will be able to advise you on their process.

More about exam reviews and appeals

Looking for more courses?

If you didn't get a place from a firm or insurance offer, you could try our Clearing service to find another course.

  • From 5 July, all Clearing vacancies are listed in our search tool, for applicants who already have their results. If you're still waiting for results you can see what may be available, should you become eligible later.
  • Look for courses and talk to universities about any vacancies you're interested in.
  • If you can't visit, check out our list of uni virtual tours to help you get a feel for the place. 

How Clearing works

Been accepted?

If one of your choices has been confirmed then you're in. Congratulations!

  • The uni or college will be in touch if there are any remaining requirements, like proof of your qualifications.
  • You're now entered into an agreement with them.
  • So if you have any second thoughts, you'll have to discuss your options with them.

More about what to do next

Looking after your mental health and wellbeing

If you didn’t get the grades you wanted, this can be a difficult time. Remember you are not alone, and there is a lot of support available to help you.

  • If you’re feeling overwhelmed or don’t know what your options are, talk to someone at your school or college if possible.
  • If you need help with understanding the Clearing process, call UCAS on 0371 468 0468 or drop us a line on social media. We’ll talk you through it and answer any questions you have.
  • Reach out to your university or college if you need help with your application or your transition to higher education. They will be more than happy to help!

There’s also lots of information available online to help:

  • Student Space, run by Student Minds is here to help you find the support that you need. Hear from students and explore a range of trusted information and tools to help guide you through the uncertainty of student life. Find support on money, relationships and social life and academic stress and pressure.
  • The Charlie Waller Memorial Trust has advice and tips to for managing anxiety and stress during Clearing.
  • Young Minds has advice for young people who are disappointed with their exam results.
  • Access free, safe, and anonymous mental health support online (providing NHS services) through Kooth – find out what support is available for you.