A-level results day: What to do if your grades aren't what you wanted

Heart pounding and palms sweating, you've opened the envelope or email containing your A-level, BTec or T-level results.

But they're not what you expected.

Don't panic - whether you want to go on to university, an apprenticeship or a full-time job, here are some of the things you can do next.

It's always worth double checking with your university if you can still attend, despite not getting the grade requirements.

If you applied for university but just missed the mark, some universities may still have a place for you thanks to Clearing.

So, if you still want to go to university, visit the Ucas website to see the universities that have available places. You can search until mid-October.

Found a university you like? As soon as you can, phone the admissions contact number for the university you applied for.

Tell them what grades you got, and see if they will allow you to enrol as a student regardless.

• LIVE: Top A-level results fall but university admissions near record

Sharon Walpole, from Careermap, tells Radio 1 Newsbeat: "Almost all universities have a clearing phone number, so call and talk to them.

"They're friendly, nice people. They want the best for you.

"Some will be very strict with grades, some will make exceptions. Always explain your situation."

They will quickly tell you if they can offer you a place - if not, you can phone another one on the list.

If Clearing doesn't work out and you think your grades are incorrect, you could potentially appeal your exam results and pay to have your papers remarked.

This needs to be done as soon as possible, though, so don't wait around!

BTec students can also appeal directly - contact your school or college and they will work with the exam boards on what to do next.

In England, Wales and Northern Ireland, the deadline to send an appeal to the exam board is 29 September.

But if your grade is related to your entry to university, you can ask for a priority review before 25 August. In Scotland, the appeals deadline is 30 August.

If you need to re-sit your exams, again contact your school or college for further information.

University isn't for everyone, regardless of your grade, and there are lots of options out there.

Things like apprenticeships, traineeships and higher technical qualifications are all on offer.

Many of these courses are competitive but you can earn while you learn and get a qualification, similar or equivalent to a degree.

And if education is not for you, you can always go straight into employment or entry level jobs.

Everyone's path is different so make sure you take a breath and look at your options.

• BACKGROUND: How were grades decided?
• WATCH: What to do if you missed your grades
• ANALYSIS: Is university worth it?

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