What to do if your A level results are better or worse than you expected

George Turnbull is the Exams Doctor for Ofqual, the government regulator on exams. He spent almost 30 years in a senior position with the UK’s largest examining board and knows everything you need to know about A levels. Now he gives School Gate the benefit of his advice:

"A preferred university place could still be yours if grades disappoint.  And if better than expected, you may be able to raise the bar and go to the place you’ve always wanted to – but thought you never could.

But don’t grab at straws, they give little support when drowning or confused.  Check out the course and the place – and if either one is in doubt – don’t take the risk.

You have an agreement with the university of your choice - and you either need to honour that or find a way round it.  Gap years and re-sits are options, but think carefully.

Consult with your teachers and others.

What to do if your results are better than expected:

If you have a university in mind, see if they will accept you.  If they will, then your original choice of university needs to release you from your agreement with them.  Without that release you cannot make the change.  But again, before grabbing that straw, be sure that you will enjoy the course and the place.

What to do if your grades disappoint:

Your results will be at your centre (your school or college) tomorrow, 14 August, for you to collect. Staff should be on hand to help, but this may not always be the case, as each centre makes its own arrangements.

You should still be able to track your progress towards securing a place.  And although no news may not be bad news, do contact the university to ensure that you have a place.  Don't mess about. Your direct action could make a difference.  Don’t leave it to your mother – or she’ll get the place, not you.

If you don’t get a place at either of your options, then you will go into clearing.

Could the examiners be wrong?

Yes. But the system is truly professional in its operation and independently regulated by Ofqual.  It has the interests of students at heart, as well as fairness.  No stone is ever left unturned, and that’s a fact.

Only your centre can raise an enquiry about your results.  If you are at the top or bottom of a grade band, one mark can make the difference between an A and a B, or any other grade.  Remember, grades can go down as well as up in an enquiry.

See if your centre will support such action and let the university know.  They will hold your place open for a limited period.  But move fast, as priority re-marks are available only until 22 August – for those with places at stake – and all other enquires must be raised by 20 September.

What else?

As with all rules and procedures there are exceptions, so you can discuss your options on a free-phone line run by the DCSF: 0808 100 8000, where experts are available to advise.  Phone them.  And if your questions relate directly to examination issues, then you can contact me at examsdoctor@ofqual.gov.uk for a personal and detailed response." 

The UCAS helpline is 0871 468 0 468

From Thursday evening, A-Level results tables and your essential guide to clearing will be available at The Times education pages.

Read our posts on whether exams really are easier these days.