Students up and down the country are anxiously awaiting their A level results this week. It's the first time in two years that teenagers have sat official exams for their A levels.
In 2021 and 2022, learning and exams were both disrupted by the coronavirus pandemic and instead grades were given by teachers. They were asked to consider a range of evidence, including mock exams, coursework, and in-class assessments to decide on pupils' grades.
For many, the grades they achieve will determine whether or not they get a place at the university of their choice. In England, students will get their A level and AS level results on Thursday, August 18.
READ MORE: Eight signs of A Level results day anxiety, how to spot it and what to do
For those waiting to see where they will end up at university in September, here is everything you need to know about UCAS Track and what time it updates.
What time does UCAS Track update?
Students going through the university application process can keep track of their application on UCAS Track. UCAS will send your grades to your chosen universities, so they can decide whether or not you have been accepted.
Their decision will be displayed on UCAS Track. In the lead up to results day, Track is 'frozen' and there won't be any changes made during this time.
The system will then be updated at 8am on results day. UCAS has warned that there will be high traffic on the website, so people will need to remain patient.
What will Track show?
Track will not show your A Level results - but it does show you your university offers. Once decisions have been made by your chosen universities, and UCAS has been notified, you can expect to see the following:
- Unconditional - Your place on the course has been confirmed, whether it's firm or insurance, or both.
- Unsuccessful - You've not been accepted by your choice or choices, but you can now enter Clearing.
- Unconditional Changed Course - You haven't met the necessary grades for your offer, but the university has proposed a similar course that meets lower grade boundaries. They could also have offered deferred entry, but you have five days to decide on the opportunity.
If no decisions are showing, give your universities or colleges a call to find out more.
What if I don't get the grades I need?
The first thing is to not panic. Hopefully, you'll get the exam grades you need, but if you just miss out, the university or college might accept you anyway.
If they don't, the best thing you can do is talk to your chosen university to see if there is any wiggle room. Another option is to accept the decision and go through the results day Clearing process instead.
For those receiving their A-Level results on Thursday, Oxbridge founder and MD Matt Jones echoes not to panic, adding: “Setbacks are a normal part of the journey; the good news is that you have more options than ever. Dust yourself off, and consider your next steps.
He continues: "If your grades have fallen short of the expectations, whether for Higher Education or a career path, then speak with them directly. It’s not uncommon for them to be more flexible, especially in these unprecedented times.
"If University is your chosen path, the clearing process can also be helpful; as Universities look to fill empty spaces, you may find that entry requirements have been lowered. Secondly, if your grades won’t carry you to the next step, I advise you to look at the bigger picture of how to proceed.
"A-level retakes are an obvious choice and the path that most will choose. In which case, you’re not stuck with your current school, college or provider; perhaps a change of establishment might suit your learning style more. You may also want to consider a vocational route with a qualification that provides direct access to work or higher education.
"You may find that these qualifications will get you to the same place, probably in a similar amount of time, but in a different style (often without exams). Whatever your choice, please ensure you do something.
"It’s very tempting to procrastinate (I know I did!), but the modern world is competitive, and every edge you can gain sets you further ahead.”
READ NEXT:
-
How to speak to your child about their A Level results - expert advice
-
Energy bill price cap could hit £5,500 in April, latest data predicts
-
Britain sees rise in unemployment - and a record slump in workers' pay
-
When autumn booster programme will start as new vaccine approved
-
Heathrow passenger number limit extended until after autumn half term
