What do my results mean for my uni application?

This article was first published in July 2020 and last updated on 12 August 2024.

Results Day season is upon us, with results for Scottish qualifications coming on 6th August, A-level results on 15th August and GCSE results on 22nd August. Whatever your qualifications or results, you may be feeling a range of emotions this year, as the coronavirus pandemic meant that many exams were cancelled.

If you’re worried that you won’t get the results you want, mental health campaigner and author Natasha Devon has some good advice about how you can prepare yourself mentally and emotionally for results day and you can read stories from those who’ve been through it in previous years here. (Spoiler: many people who didn’t get the results they wanted still went on to do well!).

So you may be wondering about what your next practical steps should be once you find out what your A-level or Scottish Higher grades are. Have no fear! Here’s your handy guide.

I got the results I needed and my uni place is confirmed: what happens next?

Ben Jordan, Director of Strategy at UCAS, says:

"On results day, students will receive an email from UCAS outlining the status of their application, and if your place has been confirmed, you can turn to the UCAS Hub for all the advice and tips you need for your journey to university or college – from money, to accommodation, and looking after your mental health."

I didn’t get the results I needed for uni: what are my options?

Ben Jordan says, "Clearing is a chance for any student to re-evaluate their choice – with just under 30,000 courses available - whether they have received their predicted, better or lower grades, or if they have only just decided they would like to start a course this autumn.

"If a student finds themselves in Clearing, as well as being able to search for courses and institutions, UCAS will personally match students to courses that they may be interested in, using what we know from their application and what universities and colleges are looking for. Students are free to accept or decline any matches — our aim is to equip students with the tools to help them on their way.

"We want to give students as much information as possible to help them find the right pathway for them, whether this be a university degree or an apprenticeship. Through their account on the UCAS Hub, there will be more personalised information and advice for students looking to secure a place at university or start an apprenticeship."

Discover more about your options after A-levels and Highers

Explore Bitesize Careers for advice on Clearing, gap years, apprenticeships and alternative pathways.