We understand that the days ahead of results day, Tuesday 9 August, are always an anxious time for learners and we want to offer reassurance to applicants.
Universities know that this year has been another difficult one for those working towards senior phase qualifications. It is the first year since 2019 that exams have returned but COVID-19 has still disrupted your education throughout this year, on top of the disruptions in the previous two school years. In recognition of this, the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) has been clear that its approach to assessment is focused on ensuring fairness to pupils and the credibility of grades awarded. Universities support this balanced approach.
Universities will begin to confirm places to conditional applicants following the release of exam results next Tuesday and so you should receive information from your chosen university once your place has been confirmed. Universities appreciate that this is an anxious time for applicants as they are aware that you are keen to know whether you have secured your place at your chosen university, however, please do give universities time to process all of the decisions prior to contacting the respective Applicant Enquiry Teams.
What to do if you don’t get your grades or your first choice place at university
- University remains a popular choice for school leavers but if you don’t achieve your required grades, please do not automatically assume your offer has been unsuccessful, please refer to the UCAS Hub to check on the decision following the release of exam results.
- If you don’t get your first choice, please don’t be disheartened. We expect there to be a range of university places available to applicants through Clearing at universities across Scotland. You can visit the UCAS clearing site ahead of results day to explore options.
- If you don’t think your grades reflect your ability, you do have the option of appeal. Appeals are free and your appeal will be treated as a priority if your grades are required for immediate entry to university. They will be processed and the result shared with UCAS by 6 September. If you intend to appeal, you should contact your first choice institution to let them know. You can find further information on the appeals service and all deadlines for priority appeals from the SQA with their Appeals 2022: What you need to know.
No Wrong Path
If you don’t find an option that suits you in Clearing, it’s important to know that you don’t just get one chance to go to university and we strongly believe that there is no wrong path to get there. You can re-apply for entry next year or you might consider higher education qualifications in college. There are also routes, starting in college that will give you advanced entry into year two or three of a university degree. You might find #NoWrongPath helpful.
Help and advice is available
You can make use of a dedicated Skills Development Scotland helpline on exam results day: 0808 100 8000. It will be live from 9am on results day to assist anyone who may need help with their options and next steps. It will be staffed by over 50 expert careers advisers and will be taking calls for over a week.