What should students and parents do if Results Day doesn't go to plan? UEA experts offer advice

By: Communications

A student ambassador in a pink branded T-shirt stands in front of some open sliding doors, with a sign on the right saying "This is UEA"

A student ambassador at a University of East Anglia Open Day.

Ahead of A-level Results Day, the University of East Anglia (UEA) is urging students and families to take stock, seek advice and consider all their options.

UEA is reminding prospective students that there are multiple pathways into higher education and that Clearing can offer opportunities for those who miss their expected grades, exceed expectations, or simply decide they want to explore a different course or university.

With record numbers of students applying to university and admissions experts predicting a larger Clearing market in 2026, UEA is preparing to welcome more than 4,000 new undergraduate students this September.

The University has already seen strong interest in its Clearing vacancies ahead of Results Day.

Professor David Maguire, Vice-Chancellor of UEA, said: "Results Day can be a day of mixed emotions for students and their families, but it's important to remember that grades are only one part of the story.

"Whether students achieve the results they were hoping for, or find themselves reconsidering their plans, there are still plenty of opportunities available.

"Clearing has evolved significantly in recent years. Some students will not have received the grades they needed to undertake their firm or insurance choice course and can contact UEA to see if we can match you to one of our high-quality courses. Others will have exceeded their predicted grades or changed their mind about where and what to study and will want to contact UEA to trade up.

"At UEA, we're proud to offer an outstanding student experience at a university recognised nationally and internationally for the quality of our teaching, research and student support. We know that talented students don't always follow a straightforward path, and we're committed to helping them find the right opportunity to succeed.

"Our advice is to take time to understand your options, seek guidance and make informed decisions. UEA has experienced teams ready to help students navigate the process and find the right pathway for them."

Nationally, Clearing is expected to be particularly active this year. UCAS data shows application numbers have increased, driven largely by a growing population of UK 18-year-olds, while recent trends indicate that students are increasingly using Clearing as a strategic choice rather than a last resort. Last year, around a third of students placed through Clearing had actively declined an existing university place in favour of another option.

Financial considerations are also playing a growing role in decision-making, with students increasingly weighing up factors such as accommodation, travel and living costs when deciding where to study.

Advice for parents and carers

UEA is encouraging parents, carers, teachers and advisers to play an active role in supporting young people through Results Day and Clearing.

To help families navigate the process, the University has created a dedicated online hub for parents and carers alongside a practical guide, Supporting Applicants through UCAS Clearing, providing clear advice and information about every stage of the process.

The resources were developed as research highlighted a lack of confidence among many parents and carers when it comes to understanding Clearing, despite playing an important role in helping students make decisions about their future.

Mature students and Clearing

This year, UCAS is also predicting increased activity from mature learners, with applications from people aged 21 and over rising for the first time since 2022. As this group is more likely to apply later in the admissions cycle and directly through Clearing, universities may see greater engagement from career changers and adult learners.

One student who knows first-hand how Clearing can open doors is Holly Gilman, who joined UEA after a successful nine-year career in London.

Now entering the final year of her English Literature and History degree, Holly returned to education through Clearing in 2022 after considering university for many years.

She said: "If you've chosen the university that you are interested in, go and speak to the outreach team. They will fill you in on anything you need to know.

"For me, it was largely about the practicalities of studying whilst caring for my family, but they will be able to help with anything. You will come out of that meeting feeling so much more confident in what comes next and the options available to you."

Visit UEA through Clearing

Students considering UEA can explore the campus during a special Clearing visit opportunity on Results Day itself, from 3.45pm to 6pm on Thursday 13 August.

Additional Clearing campus tours will take place from 10am to 2pm on:

Friday 14 August
Saturday 15 August
Monday 17 August
Wednesday 19 August
Friday 21 August

Students can also speak directly to UEA's Clearing team for advice and guidance by calling 01603 944840. UEA continues to offer places on a wide range of courses and has guaranteed accommodation available for eligible students joining through Clearing.

For more information, visit www.uea.ac.uk/study/clearing.

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