Missed your A-level grades? Overshot? What to do next

If you have got the grades you were asked for by your first choice university, congratulations – go and celebrate.

For those students whose results were better or worse than expected, here is some practical advice about your next move:

I haven’t got the grades I was asked for – what should I do?

Don’t worry if you have not got your grades.

If you only just missed the conditions of your offer, your first choice university may have been able to confirm your place anyway. Look out for an email from them or log onto Ucas Track.

In some cases university admissions tutors may still be reviewing your results – it is worth ringing your first choice university, they may be able to exercise discretion.

(Wendy James, Undergraduate Admissions Manager at London Metropolitan University)

If they are unable to consider your application further, you can apply for courses at other universities through Clearing – contact the university directly to see if they will offer you a place.

I have done better than predicted – what should I do?

You can stick with the course you have been accepted onto, if you are happy with it. But it’s also possible to swap where you’re studying.

The Ucas process of adjustment allows students who have achieved higher than expected results to upgrade to a different degree.

(Wendy James, Undergraduate Admissions Manager at London Metropolitan University)

Check the Ucas site, using their Adjustment service to see if there is an alternative course available for you.