Should I retake A Levels?

Hi,

I recently recieved my results and unforunately they were not what I wanted and were generally really bad. I did get into a university but it wasn't my first choice and it was with a foundation year, which I am not really keen on taking.

Also, because it was really last minute, I didn't get suitable accomodation in time and seems like everything would be a bit rushed.

I was considering retaking my A Levels completely and really commit to them to try and achieve the best possible grades) and defer my current offer for the next year. But I have a few questions.

1. If I took the foundation year as is, is there a chance that I can switch universities after the foundation year or will they also check for A Level results?

2. If I defer my entry and retake A Levels and end up doing really well, would I still be allowed to apply for clearing at other universities, despite having a place already?

Thank you again!

Foundation years are specific to each uni and are not recommended if you don't want to continue to the degree course at the same uni. FY courses aren't readily accepted by other unis.
If you defer entry but then want to apply to other unis in 2025 (in clearing or the main cycle), you have to be released from your deferred place first. If you retake your A levels, it's probably best to apply again to five choices by the January deadline.

So is there not a way still keeping my current option as a backup or would I need to decline my offer now if I were to choose the gap year. My reasoning is because I did badly in my A Levels I don't think I would get anywhere if I reapplied. However, I was thinking in the chance I end up doing well, would I still be able to go through a clearing process, whilst having this offer?

If you received your current offer through clearing, then you can't defer your place. Clearing offers are to fill courses starting Sep/Oct 2024. If your place is from your firm or insurance choice, then you can ask your uni to defer your place. They don't have to agree to this but they might. If you are holding a deferred offer and resit and wait until results day to apply through clearing, you will still have to decline that deferred offer before you apply.