A level results day 2021
A-level results day was expected to look very different with exams cancelled for a second time due to the pandemic. However, this hasn’t affected results as just under 50% of students have received A and A* grades. And just over 70% of all A-level entries from private schools in England were awarded an A grade or higher this year. This is compared to 44% in 2019, when exams last took place, and 60.8% last year
Getting into Uni without the Grades
Even if you didn’t receive the results you were hoping for, all is not lost. It’s perfectly possible to get onto a degree course that’s right for you, even without the perfect grade. The first thing to do once you’ve received your grades is to contact the university in question and discuss your options. Many unis prefer a pro-active approach, so by picking up the phone and stating your case, it could go in your favour.
Consider UCAS points instead of grades
Some universities focus on grades and others focus on UCAS points. However, it’s not just your main academic subjects that give you UCAS points. There are lots of other qualifications you could add to increase your total. Try to research universities and clearing before results day; this could make it easier to go into clearing. In some instances, it doesn’t pay to be assertive but when it comes to university placements, being assertive is key.
Consider your options
With or without the grades expected, there are always options available and it doesn’t always start with university. Lots of university leavers take the opportunity pre-career to go travelling or just even work for more hands-on experience. The pathway to the world of work is different for everyone, and grades or no grades there are always options and support available.