A Level Results Day can bring a mix of emotions – celebration, relief, surprise, and sometimes, uncertainty. Whether you’ve got the grades you expected, changed your mind about your course, or didn’t get the results you’d hoped for, it’s important to know: you still have options.
Here’s your step-by-step guide to navigating what happens next.
1. Check UCAS Track (and take a breath)
UCAS Track will show if your place has been confirmed, if you've missed your offer, or if you're eligible for Clearing. Before rushing into any decisions, take a moment to breathe, read through your status carefully, and take stock of how you feel about your results.
Helpful link: Sign in to UCAS Track
2. Didn’t get the grades? Don’t panic
If you’ve missed your offers, you’re not alone – and there’s support available.
Here’s what you can do:
Contact your firm/insurance university: They may still accept you, especially if your grades are only slightly below the offer.
Enter Clearing: Thousands of students find great courses through Clearing every year – and many universities are ready to talk to you on Results Day. (Including NMITE)
Explore direct application options: Some institutions, like NMITE, let you apply directly without UCAS.
Helpful link: Apply direct through NMITE
3. Changed your mind about your course or uni?
It happens! Maybe your interests have shifted, or you’ve discovered a degree that suits you better.
Options include:
Self-release into Clearing via UCAS (you’ll need to do this carefully and officially). If you need any extra advice on this, feel free to give our Clearing helpline a call and chat to our friendly team on 01432 804500.
Look for more hands-on or employer-focused options that better align with how you want to learn.
Talk to the universities you’re considering – you might be surprised by how flexible and supportive they are.
4. Need support deciding your next step?
Speak to:
Your school or college adviser
University admissions teams
Parents, friends, or mentors who know your strengths and goals
You’re not alone in figuring this out – take the time to explore what’s right for you.
Helpful link: Contact NMITE
5. Consider a different kind of education
At NMITE, we do things differently:
No lecture theatres, no traditional exams
Small teams, real-world projects
Apply directly without UCAS
Flexible entry requirements (we look at potential, not just grades)
Hands-on degrees built in collaboration with employers
If you're thinking about engineering – but want a more practical, future-focused experience – it’s not too late to apply, and you can get a Clearing decision in 30 minutes or less at NMITE.
Helpful link: Clearing information at NMITE
6. Final tip: Take your time (but don’t miss deadlines)
Clearing places fill up quickly – but that doesn’t mean you should rush. Gather the information you need, speak to a few universities, and go with the option that feels like the best fit for you!
Still exploring your options for September?
You can apply directly to NMITE today – no UCAS required, and no pressure. Just real people, real conversations, and real opportunity.
Call us on 01432 804500 for a Clearing decision in 30 minutes or less or apply online.
