Students share advice for Results Day & Clearing

Clearing and Results Day can be a bit of a whirlwind, so we asked some of our students for their tips and advice for Results Day and using Clearing.

Be prepared
"The first thing you should do before you collect your results from your school or college is to check your UCAS. That way, you'll know if you've got on to your desired course or not and you'll have an idea of the grades you've got.

"If you haven't got in, you know you can go through Clearing, and you'll still have other options. Be prepared with an idea of what you'll do if you don't get onto either of your chosen courses.

"Finally, try not to worry too much! I remember the stress of Results Day well and I know how difficult it can be, but you should remember that there a huge number of options for you in the future."

- Shahrbano, BSc (Hons) Clinical Sciences.

Protect your mental health
"I would advise that you have patience throughout the process. Be certain and confident in yourself that you'll get into university or your chosen course. Be sure that you research the university and course (and know about the requirements) before you call, convince them that you have made an informed decision to study there, and not just chosen out of desperation.

"Lastly, protect your mental health. Don't compare yourself to your peers who have had an offer already."

- Lois, BEng (Hons) Software Engineering.

Do your research and have a plan
"Just go for it. I don't think there any downsides to applying through Clearing. You still have your offer, it stays with you whilst you're looking at other courses and other universities, and it's providing you with the best opportunity to make sure you can go and study somewhere that you'll love.

"Research universities, colleges and courses and have a plan. Prepare answers to common Clearing questions such as why you are interested in applying to the university, this will help you feel more prepared and less anxious if you need to answer questions.

"If you do not get the grades you were hoping for, do not panic on the day, the UCAS Clearing system takes no longer than 20 minutes at most."

- Aroosa, BSc (Hons) Accounting and Finance.

Stress less, for less mess!
"Don't hesitate to call a university's Clearing helpline if you feel like you are just below your course requirements. There is a massive chance they can negotiate and come to a conclusion that is best for you. Maybe a foundation year is the best option, or maybe they can offer you the place on the desired course you wish to enrol on.

"Remember, stressing does not help and will not resolve any issues, so stress less for less mess. Do calculate your UCAS grades online and check your requirements. Weigh up your options and ring Clearing when you best feel ready."

- Amaan, BSc (Hons) Biomedical Science.

What are your top tips and advice for Results Day and Clearing? :smile: