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The Ultimate Guide to Navigating A-Level and BTEC Results Day

by Editorial TeamAugust 5, 2024

A combined A Level and BTEC results day is fast approaching, bringing with it the annual whirlwind of emotions and anticipation! For students across the UAE and beyond, this milestone is the culmination of years of work and a launchpad to the future.

We’ve put together what we think is the ultimate guide to help you navigate A Level and BTEC results day smoothly. Read on for all the information you need…

A Level Results

A Level and BTEC Results Day – August 15th 2024

When and How A Level Results Are Released

Date and Time: A Level and BTEC results for 2024 will be released on Thursday, August 15th. The exact time results are available can vary depending on the exam board and the school, so it’s essential to check the specific details provided by your child’s school.

Accessing Results: Students will receive their results either online or in person at their school. For those accessing results online, they will need to log in to theexam board’s results portal using credentials provided by their school. Ensure that your child has these details well in advance, and that they test their login to avoid any last-minute issues and stress!

When and How BTEC Results Are Released

Date and Time: BTEC results are usually released to students on or just before A-level results day (Thursday, August 15th). Your child’s school will normally receive BTEC results the day before A-level results come out, but students may only be given them on the same day as A-levels.

Due to the nature of BTEC assessment, students will already know some (perhaps most) of their individual unit grades from completed units.

Accessing Results: Your school will let you know when and how your child will be able to pick up their BTEC results. They might have to get them in person, or they could be sent by email.

Celebrate A Level and BTEC Results Day with SchoolsCompared.com

Each and every member of the SchoolsCompared.com team will be on call throughout A Level and BTEC results day and together we will be sharing all the excitement, news, and stories…in real time! Be sure to bookmark www.schoolscompared.com to ensure you don’t miss a moment.

Understanding the Scores: A Level Results

A Levels are graded on a scale from A* to E, with A* being the highest grade. Each subject is assessed separately, and the final grades are determined by the cumulative performance in both coursework (if applicable) and final exams. A strong set of A Level results can open the door to various university courses, apprenticeships, and career opportunities.

Understanding the Scores: BTEC Results

BTECs are vocational qualifications and are assessed through a combination of coursework, practical assessments, and exams. BTEC results are typically awarded as Pass, Merit, Distinction, or Distinction*. These qualifications can be equivalent to A Levels and are recognised by universities and employers alike.

What Does a Grade of ‘U’ Mean for A Level Results?

Grade ‘U’: A ‘U’ stands for “ungraded” and indicates that the student did not meet the minimum requirements to achieve a grade. If a ‘U’ appears next to any subject, students should contact their school’s exam coordinator for further information and assistance.

What Does a ‘Q’ Mean for BTECs?

Grade ‘Q’: A ‘Q’ indicates that a result is pending due to a query or issue with the assessment process. This could be due to administrative reasons or missing components. Students should contact their school’s exam coordinator for more information.

A Level and BTEC Results Day: The Emotional Rollercoaster

Results day can be an emotional rollercoaster. Whether the results are as expected, better, or worse, it’s important for all involved to remain calm and to be as supportive as possible. More than the results, our top tip is to focus on celebrating the effort and dedication your child has shown throughout their studies.

Handling Unexpected Results

Better Than Expected Results

Celebrate and Acknowledge: Take the time to celebrate your child’s hard work and success. Acknowledge their dedication and the effort they have put in over the years.

Revisit University Options: If your child’s results exceed their predicted grades, it may open up opportunities at universities they previously thought out of reach. Encourage them to consider whether they want to adjust their plans or applications accordingly.

Worse Than Expected Results

Stay Calm and Supportive: It’s natural to feel disappointed, but it’s important to focus on being supportive. Your child will likely be feeling the weight of the results, and your calm and positive demeanor can help them process the outcome.

Explore Options: There are several routes to consider if the results are lower than expected:

University Admissions: Many universities are understanding of A Level and BTEC results and may still offer a place, especially if the student’s overall application is strong. Contact the admissions offices to discuss the situation.

Remarks and Re-evaluations: If your child feels that their results do not accurately reflect their performance, they can request a remark. Consult with their teachers to determine if this is a viable option.

Retakes: Students have the option to retake exams in specific subjects. While this can be a challenging decision, it may provide an opportunity to improve their scores and achieve their academic goals.

Appealing Results (or Having Exams Remarked)

Appealing Results: If your child believes that their results do not accurately reflect their performance, they have the right to appeal. This process involves requesting a re-evaluation of their marks. The appeal should be made through the school’s exam coordinator, who will guide you through the steps and required documentation.

Having Exams Remarked: A remark involves a senior examiner reviewing the exam papers to ensure that the original marking was accurate. This process can sometimes lead to an increase or decrease in marks. To initiate a remark, contact the school’s exam coordinator promptly, as there are usually strict deadlines for such requests.

Student may choose to question or appeal their results.

Appealing A Level and BTEC Results: A Word of Warning

It’s vital that students and parents alike remember that whether appealing for a remark or retaking an exam – results can go up as well as down!

Heading to Uni in the UK: What is ‘Clearing’?

Clearing is a system used by UK universities to fill any remaining places on their courses. It provides an opportunity for students who did not receive offers or who did not meet the conditions of their offers to find available courses.

Cambridge University (King’s College Chapel), UK

How to Use The Clearing System:

Check Availability: Once the A Level and BTEC results are released, students can check the UCAS website to see which courses have vacancies.

Contact Universities: If your child finds a course they are interested in, they should contact the university directly to discuss their application. Be ready to provide their A Level and BTEC results and other relevant information.

Accepting an Offer: If the university offers a place, your child will need to add the Clearing choice to their UCAS application.

Clearing can be a valuable option for students to secure a place at a UK university, even if their results are not as high as anticipated.

Moving Forward: After Results, Comes the Future!

Regardless of the results, it’s important to remind your child that their A Level and BTEC scores do not define their future. Results are simply one step in a long and rewarding journey! The resilience and perseverance students develop through their studies are invaluable skills that are sure to serve them well in the future.

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