When Plan ‘A’ Falls Through: Your Guide to What’s Next After Results Day

Mark Anderson is an independent Careers Adviser at Kickstart Careers Coaching and a regular speaker at What University? & What Career? Live.

Results day can be a joyous time for many students, but for others, it can be a moment of huge disappointment. If you didn’t get the grades needed for your first or second choice university, it may take time to come to terms with it. Trust me, I’ve been there. But at this point it’s vital to remember that you are not defined by your exam results, you still have options, and your future is far from over.

Take Time to Reflect

First, try not to panic or make any rushed decisions. Allow yourself space to feel the emotions and talk to family or friends. Bottling things up won’t help, but processing your feelings is an important first step before moving forward.

Next, ask yourself an important question: Do I still want to go to university? It may sound a bit odd to ask such a question seeing as you may have applied months ago, but it’s worth revisiting your motivations. Some students apply due to family expectations or because it feels like “the thing to do.” But university is a big commitment financially, emotionally, and academically. Consider:

• What would a university degree offer me?
• How does it align with my long-term goals?

Once you’ve done that thinking, you’ll be better placed to explore your next steps. Here are three main pathways:

Option 1: Take a Gap Year

You might decide to take a year out to regroup, work and/or travel. A gap year can help you gain perspective, build confidence, and figure out what you truly want. You can reapply through UCAS for the following academic year, potentially with a stronger application and clearer focus. During that year, you could also consider applying for apprenticeships or other forms of training.

Option 2: Apply for an Apprenticeship

University isn’t the only route to a degree. Degree and higher apprenticeships let you earn while you learn, offering valuable work experience and a qualification at the same time. This path may appeal to those who want practical experience in addition to academic learning.

Option 3: Apply Through Clearing

If your goal is still to start university this September, Clearing could be your route in. Each year, tens of thousands of students secure university places this way. In 2024, over 68,000 applicants accepted offers through Clearing, proof that it’s a well-established, successful pathway.

Understanding the Clearing Process

Clearing opens at 8:00 AM on results day, which falls on Thursday, 14 August 2025, for students in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. If you’re not holding any offers, you’ll become eligible to use Clearing via UCAS Hub, where you can see which universities still have spaces available.

Where to Start Your Search

Start by looking at the other universities you originally applied to, aside from your firm and insurance choices. Since you’ve already researched them and maybe even attended open days, you have a head start.

If those aren’t suitable, broaden your search. Look at other institutions offering the same or similar courses. For example, if you originally applied for forensic psychology, consider alternatives like psychology with criminology or criminology and psychology.

Once you identify potential courses, research them in detail. Visit university websites to learn about modules, facilities, teaching styles, and campus life. Don’t just pick a course because it’s available, make sure it fits your interests and goals.

Make a Priority List

After researching, create a priority list of universities and courses you’d be happy to attend. This will help you stay focused and avoid scrambling on the day.

Most universities will expect you to call them directly to express interest and possibly participate in a short, informal interview. Some may also offer online chat or forms via the UCAS Hub, but phoning is usually the fastest way to get a response.

Prepare for the Call

Before you call, have these items ready:

• University phone numbers
• Your UCAS Personal ID
• Your Clearing number (from UCAS Hub)
• Your A-level and GCSE results
• A list of questions you may want to ask
• Pen and paper to take notes

Also, take a few minutes to review your personal statement. It might have been a while since you wrote it, and you may be asked questions about what you said, especially around your interests or career aspirations.

Make sure to sound positive and enthusiastic, this is your opportunity to make a great impression.

What Happens After the Call?

At the end of the conversation, one of three things will happen:

1. You’ll receive a verbal offer
2. You’ll be placed on a reserve list
3. Your application will be declined

If it’s a no, move down your list and try the next university. Keep going! You only need one “yes.”

If you receive an offer, the university will usually tell you when and how to add them as your Clearing choice on UCAS.

Adding a Clearing Choice in UCAS Hub

You can only add one Clearing choice at a time, and only after the university gives you permission. Here’s what to do:

1. Log into your UCAS Hub
2. Enter the course details under “Your Choices”
3. Double-check everything is correct
4. Click Submit
5. Wait for the university to confirm your place (usually within a few hours)

Once confirmed, you’re in! 🎉

Final Tips

• Act quickly: Places fill fast, especially in popular subjects like psychology, law, or business.
• Stay organised: Keep track of who you’ve spoken to and what they said.
• Be flexible: Broaden your course or location criteria if needed.
• Ask for help: Teachers, career advisers, or family members can offer support and guidance.

In Summary

Missing your university offers isn’t the end of your journey, it’s just a different path. Whether you take a gap year, choose an apprenticeship, or go through Clearing, you still have the power to shape your future. Stay calm, be proactive, and believe in your ability to move forward. Your future isn’t over, it’s just starting differently.

And all the best, you’ve got this!