WITH studying complete and exams finished, A-Level exam results day will be upon us tomorrow (Thursday), writes Ramla Soni.
Kim Clifford, from the Association of Colleges, gives six top tips to help make sense of your results and help you get one step closer to the bright future that awaits.
1) Confirm your place: You’ve received your results, now log onto UCAS track. If your firm offer has been confirmed contact the college or university to confirm your place.
2) Do not panic if you did not get the grades you wanted: There are other options such as apprenticeships or the clearing system. You can also re-sit exams or find a different higher education course.
3) Be clear about clearing: If you’re going through clearing, make sure you have a clearing guide (the UCAS website), access to a phone, a notebook and a pen. You will need them for calling universities and colleges to find out what is on offer, depending on your grades. If you have a grade above your firm offer, you can use UCAS adjustment to trade up to another course, university or college.
4) Know your options: If you’ve changed your mind or do not want to take the academic university route, investigate your local college. They offer technical and professional qualifications such as BTECs at Level 3, advanced apprenticeships and also Foundation Degrees or Higher National Diplomas. These qualifications often include working directly with employers on placements so it can be an excellent experience.
5) Explore apprenticeships: If you want a degree without university tuition fees and at the same time get a paid job, it may be possible to find a higher apprenticeship. Many local and national companies now offer apprenticeships. Colleges can help find the right one for you. Alternatively, search for apprenticeships at www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship/.
6) Be proud of yourself: You’ve got this far. Whether you have received the grades you wanted or not, there is something out there that is right for you. The key thing is to know your options, do your research and get advice from reliable sources such as career advisers. There’s also the option of taking a gap year and maybe getting some work experience before going on to further study.
Kim said: “This may seem like a really scary time as you are moving on to something new and unfamiliar. But stay calm and think carefully about what you want to do.
“Make sure you have access to information about all the options available, so that you’ll be able to make the best decision for your future.
“If you’re not sure, speak to your local college, which can advise you on all the options available.”
