If you haven’t got the results to get into the university you planned, don’t panic.
Vicki Hennessy, Associate Director, Student Recruitment and Outreach at the University of Salford, talks us through her dos and don’ts. Read on for advice on what to do if you don’t get the results you need, how to secure a university place through Clearing and how to survive the pressure of A-level results day.
DO:
Plan ahead, just in case.
If you think you might need to, research clearing options before you get your results. Remember that Clearing starts on 5 July, if you have your results early you don’t need to wait until A-level or BTEC results day in August to contact universities.
Visit universities – most universities will have campus tours or other visit opportunities throughout the summer. Get your young person’s railcard out and make some trips – getting a feel for places is always helpful.
Also take time to think about what it is you want from your student experience. Is it a busy city with people, places, nightlife or a quieter campus-based university with some green spaces? As well as in-person visits, many universities have virtual tours and images on their website to help you see what the atmosphere is like, as well as the courses.
Talk to people.
We know that ringing people might not be your favourite way of communicating these days, but it is the quickest and easiest way to get advice and guidance and potentially a Clearing offer. The team on the end of the phone? It is their job to help you, they love answering questions, fire away.
If you are in Clearing, and this means you are going to a different university than your original choice, you’ll have practical things to sort out – accommodation if you want to move away, your student finance, any wellbeing or disability support you may need. Your new university can help guide you through this – don’t think it’s all about just getting the offer, their teams will help with the whole process.
Go easy on yourself.
Getting your results can be a stressful time for many. Try to keep calm and recognise that it’s okay to change your mind – people use Clearing for many different reasons, including changing your mind on your course. That’s okay, we’re here for all of it.
DON’T:
Make hasty decisions
Try your best not to panic. But at the same time be aware that Clearing courses can fill – it’s a balancing act in terms of your decision making and universities will typically give you a timeframe after which your Clearing offer may expire. Check this information.
Be afraid to ask questions
Universities really are there to help; it is literally our job to answer questions and provide support to students making their choices about higher education. We want you to make the best choice for you. Plus, always remember no question is a silly question – it’s the golden rule.
Check about accommodation
If your situation changes, think about the plans you had in place. Don’t assume that if you change university that your accommodation will automatically be cancelled – check this!
More helpful advice on Clearing can be found on the University of Salford’s Clearing Hub.
