As students across Northern Ireland receive their A-level results on Thursday, many will be preparing for their next steps at university.
For many others who won't get the grades they were looking for, don't despair.
There are several options available if you don't get the results you need to get into your preferred universities, from apprenticeships to other forms of education.
Read more: When will this year's A-Level and GCSE results be released?
What to do if you don't get the university grades you need?
Your first step should be to talk to the university in question. While they're under no obligation to reconsider their decision, especially with places so competitive, they may listen to you if you plan to appeal any grades.
Alternatively, you could accept your grades and go through the results day Clearing process instead. This is a service for universities that have places needing to be filled and students who want a university place.
Getting a place through Clearing is not as difficult as it sounds. Simply contact the universities you want to speak to, explain your situation and why you want to study at their university and be confident about your abilities.
If you're not immediately successful, don't give up. Keep ringing – your persistence will pay off. Calls are best as emails may not be responded to immediately.
Ahead of results day, it is wise to write a list of universities as potential fallback options so that you don't have to stress on results day trying to find contact details.
Resits
Retaking your qualifications could be also an option. Just be certain that it is the route you want to take, and think about whether it would benefit your planned next steps. Your teachers will advise you on this decision.
The Curriculum, Examinations and Assessment (CCEA) will provide:
- an Autumn 2022 exams series for GCSE sciences, GCSE English Language and GCSE Mathematics; and
- a March 2023 exams series for GCSE sciences.
Alternative routes
There are lots of other opportunities available to support your next steps. You may want to consider technical and other professional qualifications, Higher Level Apprenticeships or foundation degrees at your local college or school.
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