LISTEN: A-level results day: Where students across the South can find help and support

Students across the South will receive their A-level, T Level and vocational qualification results today (Thursday, 13 August.)

While results day can bring excitement, relief and celebration, it may also cause disappointment, anxiety and uncertainty for young people whose grades are different from those they expected.

Students can collect their results from their school or college according to local arrangements. University applicants can also log into the UCAS Hub from 8am to discover whether their place has been confirmed.

The Hub does not display examination grades, which must be collected from the school, college or awarding organisation.

What should students do if they miss their grades?

Students who have not achieved the grades required for their chosen university should not assume their place has automatically been lost.

Universities may still accept an applicant, particularly if they only narrowly missed the conditions of their offer. Students should check their UCAS application and speak directly to the university’s admissions team before making another decision.

Applicants may also be offered a place on a related course or one which includes a foundation year.

Teachers and careers advisers at schools and colleges will be available to explain results and help students consider their options. Young people should avoid making a rushed decision simply because they feel disappointed or under pressure.

Students who believe there may have been a problem with a result can speak to their school or college about a review of marking or a possible appeal.

How does Clearing work?

UCAS Clearing allows universities and colleges to fill places remaining on their courses.

It can be used by applicants who did not meet the conditions of their offers, received no offers, applied after 30 June or decided to decline an existing place.

Eligible students will be able to add a Clearing choice to their UCAS application from 1pm on results day.

Before adding a choice, applicants should contact the university and confirm that it is prepared to offer them a place. They should have their UCAS Personal ID, results and contact details ready.

Students are advised to consider the course content, location, accommodation, travel arrangements, fees and living costs rather than accepting the first vacancy available. Asking whether accommodation is still guaranteed is particularly important.

Clearing is not the only route forward. Other options include an apprenticeship, employment, a foundation course, resitting examinations or taking a gap year.

Free advice is available from the National Careers Service through webchat or by calling its Exam Results Helpline on 0800 100 900.

Bob Saville Head of Student Recruitment and Admissions at the University of Chichester has been speaking to V2 Radio's Head of News about what students should do when they get their results.  

Mental health support in Sussex

Students across Sussex who feel overwhelmed, anxious or stressed can receive free and confidential support by texting SUSSEX to 85258.

The service, delivered by Shout, connects the person with a trained mental health professional for a text-based conversation. It is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

More than 16,000 text conversations were held with people in Sussex between 1 July 2025 and 30 June 2026. The service is particularly popular with teenagers and young adults, with stress, worry and low mood among the most common reasons for getting in touch.

Dr Oliver Dale, Chief Medical Officer for Sussex Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, said:

“Waiting for exam results can be a worrying time for young people. It's normal to feel some anxiety but if those feelings are becoming overwhelming, it's important to reach out for support.

“Text SUSSEX to 85258 offers a free, confidential and accessible way for young people to share how they're feeling and get professional help with their mental health.”

Support in Hampshire

Young people in Hampshire can text SHOUT to 85258 for free, confidential mental health support at any time.

Help and self-care resources are also available through Hampshire CAMHS, while students can speak to a parent, teacher, college pastoral team, GP or another trusted adult if they are struggling.

Anyone in Hampshire, Sussex or elsewhere in England who needs urgent help for their mental health can call NHS 111 and select the mental health option. The service is available around the clock and connects callers with trained professionals. NHS guidance is available online.

If someone’s life is in immediate danger, people should call 999 or attend A&E.

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