With results day fast approaching, things are certainly going to be a bit different this year and no matter how well you think you’ve done, it’s completely normal to feel anxious. We understand that results day is incredibly important to many students across the country, that’s why we’re here to help you make it as smooth sailing as possible no matter the outcome!
Make sure you have everything you need
A couple of days before, it’s a good idea to start getting together everything you might need to avoid any last-minute freak-outs. Here’s our recommended list:
• A fully charged phone
• Emails or printouts detailing any conditional offers you may hold
• Contact details for your firm and insurance choices
• Your UCAS Track login
Consider every outcome
With results day it’s key to prepare for the worst and hope for the best. If the pandemic has taught us anything it’s that things can go either way so it’s important to make sure that you have a plan in place. To get started, think about what you would do if you missed your grades or did better than you thought. In these cases, you might want to consider clearing, adjustment or move away from going to university altogether. Create a list of institutions that you’re interested in who will be partaking in these campaigns and you could also start to draft up some alternative options to university.
Avoid Social Media
Results day can be a crazy day for social media with exam boards trending and a whole range of emotions, it’s best to avoid it whilst making your big decisions. Take some away to consider options and make the best choice for you. It’ll still be there once everything has blown over.
What happens if I don’t get the grades I need?
Missing your grades doesn’t have to be the end of the world, if you’ve got a plan in place and the passion for whatever you want to do, it will work out in the end. Here are some of your options.
This year exam reviews and appeals are still taking place. UCAS recommends that you arrange this as quickly as possible. Make sure you keep your university or college up to date with the situation as well.
The clearing isn’t as scary as it sounds, it’s an opportunity for you to explore some other institutions and eventually secure a place. As mentioned before, make sure you have a list of some institutions you’re interested in. Be prepared to discuss why you want to study your course choice and what you can bring to the university. This year both Pearson Business School and Escape Studios are taking part in the clearing. If you’re interested in business or the creative industries, you can find out more about our courses in clearing here.
You may also want to consider alternative options such as apprenticeships, gap years and international study, the opportunities are endless! Remember that you have plenty of time to get where you want to be and sometimes the unexpected decisions can be the best ones!
Have some post-results plans
Whether you plan to jet off on a well-deserved holiday or spend time with friends, make sure you take some time to relax and think about something other than your results. Good or bad, results day can be draining so try not to get too caught up in the hype, it’s still the summer holidays after all!
