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If you’ve picked up your A level results and are disappointed by the outcome, read on to find out more about the options and next steps available to you from here.

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Don’t panic

It may feel like the worst thing in the world right now, but that feeling will subside soon. Take some quiet time to calm your thoughts and regulate your breathing in order to clear your mind; if it’s time to make decisions on your future then this will be much easier to do if you get yourself to a level-headed state.

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Re-sit

Resitting is the most obvious option for those who didn’t get the grades they expected but don’t want to change their upcoming plans too much. This isn’t a decision to be taken lightly though, consider the grades you want to improve and whether resitting is really a necessity for your next steps (i.e. think about whether your planned next step really requires you to get a better grade in the subjects you’re considering resitting).

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Re-mark

If you think it’s necessary, you may want to look into our range of official post-results services which include having a review of marking or a clerical re-check of your exam scripts. Please bear in mind that any requests for post-results services must be submitted through the Exams Officer at your school.

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Clearing

If you didn’t meet the conditions of your university offers then all hope is not lost, you may still be able to apply for Clearing. The process of Clearing allows you to find another university/college that has vacant spaces on their courses that may consider accepting your confirmed results. This option may not be suitable for those who had their heart set on a specific university and aren’t willing to study elsewhere, but for those who are open to the prospect of studying somewhere else this is a great way to avoid missing out on attending university this year! Head to theÌýÌýto find out further information on Clearing.

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Gap year

An important thing to remember after collecting your results is that although there’ll be a hive of activity happening around you, you do not need to feel pressured to make any instant decisions. If you’re unsure as to whether you want to re-sit your exams, head to university or get a full-time job, you always have the option of taking some time out to figure out exactly what it is that you want to do. This may mean taking a year off to travel and earn money in another part of the world, or it may mean getting a job closer to home while you take the time to figure out your next steps. Either way, you should not feel pressured to do something that you’re not sure is right for you.

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If you need further guidance on the options that may be open to you at this stage, then speak to your teachers and parents/guardians who will be able to offer support and refer you to the relevant agencies that will be able to provide you with more detailed information!