Exam results day can bring a huge mix of emotions: excitement, nerves, elation, and for some, disappointment. Whether you’re collecting GCSE, IGCSE, A-level or IB results, we want you to know: you are not alone. Whatever your grades, there are always options, and there’s always a way forward.
Here’s our guide to help you make sense of it all, including what to do if your results aren’t what you hoped for.
Before You Open Your Results
Take a breath. However you’re feeling, it’s okay. Nerves are completely normal; you’ve worked hard to get to this point.
Find a quiet space. Whether you’re at school or checking online, give yourself space to take it in.
Have someone supportive nearby. A parent, teacher, or friend can help talk things through if needed.
If You Got The Grades You Wanted: Congratulations! 🎉
Celebrate your achievement. You earned it! Now is the time to finalise next steps:
GCSE/IGCSE Students: Confirm your Sixth Form or college place. You may need to submit proof of your results.
A-Level Students: Log into UCAS to check your university status. If your offer is confirmed, fantastic! If not, see our section below on Clearing.
If You Didn’t Get The Grades You Needed: Don’t Panic
Many students don’t get the grades they expected, but there are still plenty of ways forward. Here’s what to do:
For A-Level Students
1. Check Your UCAS Tracker
You might still have been accepted by your firm or insurance university, even if your grades are lower than your offer. Check UCAS before making any decisions.
2. Consider UCAS Clearing
If you haven’t been accepted, Clearing is your next step. Thousands of university places are available every year through Clearing, even for competitive courses. Keep an open mind and research options on the UCAS website.
3. Speak To Your School
Teachers and careers advisers can help with:
Appealing a grade
Reapplying next year
Finding alternatives like apprenticeships or foundation years
For GCSE/IGCSE Students
1. Speak To Your School Or College
If you’ve missed entry requirements for your A-level or vocational course:
Ask if they’ll still accept you (many do!)
Ask about resit opportunities in November
Consider alternative pathways, such as BTECs or other qualifications
2. Think Long-Term
One exam series doesn’t define you. It’s okay to adjust your path, lots of successful people have done just that.
If You Think Your Grade Is Wrong: Appealing
You can request a review or appeal if:
You think your paper was marked incorrectly
You were affected by circumstances not taken into account
Important: Your grade could go up or down, so take advice before appealing. Your school can help you with this process.
Your Mental Health Matters
Getting disappointing results is tough, but it does not reflect your worth or your future potential.
If you’re struggling:
Talk to someone: a parent, friend, teacher or school counsellor
Contact a support service: like Childline (0800 1111) or The Mix (Text THEMIX to 85258)
Take a break from social media if it makes things harder
What Next? Planning Your Future
Even if your original plan doesn’t work out, there are always new opportunities:
Reapply with a stronger personal statement and more experience
Explore gap year options, volunteering, or internships
Look at different routes into your chosen career, including apprenticeships, foundation years, or resits
Final Thoughts From SwH Learning
Results day can feel like the end of something, but really it’s the beginning. Every path is different, and success doesn’t always follow a straight line.
Whether you’re celebrating or regrouping, be proud of the work you’ve put in. And remember: you are more than just a grade.