With A-level results day tomorrow (14 August), many students across Bedford Borough will be anxiously wondering what comes next.
Whether you’re heading to university, thinking about taking a gap year, or exploring alternative routes into higher education, it’s normal to have questions.
To help reduce stress and give students a clearer picture of their options, Robbie Bryant, careers and education expert at Open Study College, has answered some of the most commonly searched questions about results day.
What if I don’t get the grades for university?
If your results aren’t what you hoped for, your first step should be to check your UCAS Hub.
Sometimes universities will still confirm your place even if you’ve narrowly missed the required grades. If your offer is not confirmed, you can explore options through UCAS Clearing, which lists available university courses that still have places.
Clearing opens on results day, and you’ll be able to apply directly to universities that interest you. Make a list of potential alternatives in advance so you’re ready to act quickly.
You can also resit your A-levels, take a gap year to reassess your options, or consider an Access to Higher Education Diploma.
These diplomas are ideal for people who prefer coursework over exams and are designed for adults seeking to pursue higher education later in life.
What if I’m unable to attend Results Day in person?
If you can’t be there on the day, please notify your school in advance.
You may be able to nominate someone to collect your results, or receive them via email or post. You won’t be able to access them through UCAS alone.
Can I defer my place once I’ve received my results?
Possibly – but don’t assume you can. Some universities (especially for competitive courses like medicine) don’t allow deferrals after you’ve accepted.
Check the policy for your chosen course before results day, just in case.
What if I’ve accepted an unconditional offer but changed my mind?
It’s not easy, but it’s not impossible either. You’ll need to speak to the university directly, and only proceed once you’re certain you have an alternative place secured.
How can I prepare in advance?
Consider various scenarios before the day arrives. Whether it’s exploring distance learning options, understanding how Clearing works, or checking if deferral is possible, a bit of prep can go a long way to easing results-day nerves.
Bryant’s final advice? “Results day is about you and your future. Whatever the outcome, make the decisions that are right for you.”
Watch the results live
The Bedford Independent will be reporting the results live from all schools and education organisations across Bedford Borough as they come in. Check our home page for updates from 08:30am on 14 August.
