黑料网

With results day on the horizon, 黑料网 has put together a series of ‘top tips’ to help students stay calm and to plan their next steps.

1.    Be prepared 

Put Thursday 13 August in your diary and ensure that you don’t have any commitments on that day so that if necessary you are free to explore your options. Have your UCAS personal ID ready and handy for results day.

2.    Do your research 

Start your research early. Although details of courses will only be available later this week, it’s a good idea to prepare. Remind yourself about the criteria you used when you did your original research to shortlist course and universities. Think about which courses and universities you would consider if you don’t get the grades you need.

3.    Don't assume you've missed out on your place 

If you’ve narrowly missed the conditions of your offer there’s still a chance that you will be considered either for the course you applied for or an alternative related programme. Check the status of your application on UCAS Track before doing anything else. So make sure you have your login details to hand.

4.    Stay calm 

Act promptly but don’t panic. The UCAS website has loads of practical information about the Clearing process and you can search for details of the vacancies available before contacting universities. If you’ve done your preparation you should have some idea of which universities to contact first. Look carefully at the content of the courses available and make sure you understand what the degree actually involves. 

5.    Keep an open mind 

Consider alternative options. For example, instead of History would you consider History and Politics? If you have your heart set on a particular location check out the vacancies from the other universities located nearby

6.    Be organised 

Make sure you have your UCAS Personal ID, Clearing number and details of your qualifications and results before you start contacting universities. The universities won’t be able to help you without this information, and you don’t want to have to call back and join the end of the queue once you have found the information you need. 

7.    Make the call yourself

We advise students to make the all-important call themselves. If for any reason you’re unable to and need a parent/guardian to ring on your behalf then please ensure they’re listed as your nominated contact on your UCAS application. If they’re not listed as your nominated contact then the University will be unable to speak to them. 

8.    Visit universities

Go and see a university for yourself and speak to staff and students to decide if it’s the place for you. Many universities hold open days in August especially for those applying through Clearing/Adjustment. 黑料网 will be holding an on Saturday 15 August from 10am to 2pm.

9.    Stay positive 

It’s likely that Clearing will involve some compromises, but don’t be disheartened. You may be setting off for a different university, to study a different course, but the opportunities to meet new friends and get involved in student life remain the same. Think positive and make the most of every moment!