After A-level results: now what’s the score?

A-LEVEL RESULTS WERE released on Thursday, bringing relief and delight to many students and their parents. But some may have just missed the mark. Here, A-level tutor Jonathan Lee Roberts, from Davies Laine and Dick Independent College in central London, tells them their options: WHAT TO DO If YOUR GRADES ARE LOWER THAN EXPECTED: “Speak to your school straight away. If you are considering re-marks, the examinations officer will need to arrange these for you and your chosen university needs to be informed. Note that your score can go down, but in most cases this is unlikely to result in your overall grade falling. Keep in mind what you will do if your re-mark does not increase your overall grade. If you are awaiting the outcome, use the time to research places available in

Clearing. Always have a back-up plan.” WHAT TO DO IF YOU HAVE MISSED YOUR UNIVERSITY OFFER: “The university may have places on alternative courses. You can check Clearing places on the UCAS website, on the university’s website or by calling the university’s Clearing hotline to discuss options. The more flexible you are, the more choices you will have.

“You could also consider taking a year out, reapplying in the next UCAS round and re-taking your A-levels next summer. But you will need to make constructive use of the time - for example, by gaining good quality work experience or learning a new language. Do not accept a place on a course that you do not want to do, but do be willing to compromise.” FOR MORE INFORMATION, visit UCAS at www.ucas.com or call 0371 468 0 468.