Got your grades, but still can’t decide what to do? Here are your options...

IF YOU failed to make the grades you needed, are confused about whether to go to uni this year (or next) or are having a rethink about your career aspirations, then read this...

RESULTS NOT GREAT?

Choose the higher of the grades you have been given today, the teacher estimation (you might already know if this is higher) or change the result for a grade gained in your mock exam.

Remember universities will take into account the impact of the Covid crisis, so you may be able to get into a course that in previous years would have required a slightly higher set of grades. So aim high and see what happens. Alternatively, you can ask to sit an actual A-level exam in October, with results awarded before Christmas. If so, let the university know you are planning to do this — it may strengthen your case when arguing that your grade does not reflect your true academic ability. However, before deciding to sit exams, talk to your school or college to find out how you will be supported and the likelihood of attaining a higher grade.

DONE BETTERTHAN EXPECTED?

Don’t use Clearing. Instead, log into Adjustment. You can still hold on to your current offer while you look for an alternative course — such as one which has higher entry requirements.

You will need to register for Adjustment and must have gained higher grades than predicted. Also, there is no vacancy list. You will have to ring universities yourself and timing is tight — you have five 24-hour periods to secure a new place.

This year, Adjustment is particularly worthwhile, as many prestigious universities that do not normally offer places during Clearing still have some vacancies. They will fill up quickly, so don’t waste any time.

NOT SURE WHAT TO STUDY?

Coronavirus has disrupted the jobs market and led many to rethink their aspirations. Download the new Qdos Careers App to explore different careers, qualifications needed and to access careers advice.

Try out a careers quiz to see what job roles fit your personality — see ucas.com/careers/buzz-quiz. Log on to the National Careers Service at nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/ explore-careers to explore options.

Also, talk to your teachers — they know you well and will be able to give advice — or school careers advisers.

NOT SURE WHETHER TO GO?

You can defer in many cases, but you might find universities are reluctant to allow masses of students to do so. Also, bear in mind you might not have much to do if you don’t go this year.

If being away from home and family at this difficult time is worrying you, particularly if you have vulnerable relatives, then consider a distance learning degree, which is taught entirely online.

Alternatively, consider studying for an HNC then an HND at a local college — you can then “top up” to a full degree, if you want to. The advantage of these qualifications is that they are employment-focused.

So studying a vocational qualification in healthcare, IT or finance could mean you get into the jobs market faster than if you went to uni first.

WANT BEST OF BOTH WORLDS?

Apprenticeships can lead to a degree without the student debt. As a result, they are highly competitive.

Some schemes have been put “on hold” as a result of Covid-19, however many employers are still expecting to hire large numbers of apprentices — professional services firm EY says it is looking to recruit 730 apprentices this year. Find out more at notgoingtouni.co.uk.