How to Prepare for Results Day

Results Day, these are two words that can make a student certainly feel nervous. After months of hard work and a long summer of waiting, it may feel like it comes down to one morning. There are, however, a few things you can do to prepare for the big day.

Expect the nerves, but try to accept it

No matter how many times people say, “don’t worry”, you probably will. And that’s completely fine! Try not to fight or suppress those feelings, instead, make space for them and if needed to, talk about them with someone you feel comfortable with. Also, do something you enjoy in the days before results day.

Know what might happen

When you log into the UCAS Hub on Results Day morning, one of five things will likely happen:

1. You meet or exceed your offer conditions – congratulations! 🎉

1. You just miss your grades but are still accepted.

1. You’re offered a place on a different course.

1. You don’t get your offers and go through Clearing.

1. You do better than expected or change your mind on your course/uni applications and can explore Clearing opportunities too.

Every outcome has options - and universities are ready to help you through them.

Get organised before

A little preparation goes a long way.
Here’s a quick checklist for the night before Results Day:

1. Check your UCAS login and password

1. Fully charge your phone and laptop

1. Have key contact numbers saved (UCAS, your firm and insurance universities, your school)

1. Write down your UCAS Personal ID and Clearing number (if you have one) just in case

(If you won’t be available to call universities, you can nominate someone to speak on your behalf, however you will need to set this up before Results Day through UCAS.)

Plan your morning

Know what time your school or college opens, and when UCAS updates (usually around 8am). There may be a delay getting into the portal on Results Day, due to the influx of students trying to access the page, but do not stress it will load eventually. Moreover, try to have a relatively rested night before and surround yourself with supportive people. If possible, keep your morning relatively calm and distraction-free.

If things don’t go to plan

It’s okay to be disappointed but try not to panic. There are many students that go through Clearing every year and end up finding a course or university that suits them even better than their original choice. I’d recommend speaking to your teachers or careers advisors, take a moment to breathe, and remember that your path isn’t defined by one day.

If things go better than expected

Amazing! If you’ve exceeded your offer conditions, you might want to explore your options still as you can go through Clearing to secure spaces at other universities who have places for people with higher grades.
You’re not obligated to switch however it’s just an option worth noting.

Look after yourself

Results Day can feel emotional, whatever the outcome. Remember to celebrate your hard work as completing your A-Levels or equivalent qualifications is a huge achievement.

Whether you’re heading to university, taking a gap year, or exploring other routes, you’ve got plenty to be proud of. No matter what your results say, this is the beginning of something new. You might soon be packing for university, discovering a new city, or starting a course you’re passionate about. Stay open-minded, stay proud, and get ready for the next chapter, I hope to see you at UoB.