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A2s

It might help to know that all kinds of people, who made a mess of their exams, went on to do very well in life e.g. Richard Branson. So it doesn't have to be all doom and gloom. There are other avenues to explore, so think about all of them. The most important thing to remember is don’t panic or make any hasty decisions. Don't get panicked into making the wrong choice; sometimes it's better to take some time off and get it right, rather than settle for second best.

What can I do?

Start by having a very honest chat with your teachers and/or your personal adviser, to work out why you didn't get the grades you wanted. If you were ill, panicked in the exam, or just didn't work hard enough, think about doing resits.

If you don't stand much chance of improving your grades, it's time to look at Clearing, other qualifications, or the world of work. If you need to take a complete break from studying and decide what you want to do with your life, consider taking a gap year.

Go through Clearing
If you wanted to go to university or college, perhaps you can get in by going for a similar course with lower entry requirements during the Clearing process. And remember you're not alone, one-in-four sixth formers will choose this route this year. There will be loads of places advertised in the next few weeks, so look for courses listed in the newspapers or visit these websites: www.ucas.ac.uk and www.ecctis.co.uk

Do resits
You can take resits in January or in the summer. A-levels can often be re-taken at your old school, minimising any upheaval by staying in a familiar environment. You may wish to go to a sixth form college or further education college instead. If you can afford to pay, you might want to consider going to an independent tutorial college (a 'crammer') for one year to improve your grades.

Get alternative qualifications
Study for QNVQs, BTECs, or NVQs, or train with modern apprenticeships, City and Guilds, London Chamber of Commerce, or OCR (formerly RSA). Contact your local Careers Service or Training Enterprise Council. As well as being recognised in many kinds of employment, some BTECs and GNVQs can be accepted by admissions officers to get you into university.

Take a gap year
Take some time out to work, travel, teach, learn a new language, or volunteer. More information can be found at www.gapyear.com for more advice and information or go to our gap page

Get a job
This will allow you to get some cash coming in while you decide on your next move.

Things don't always go to plan in life, but the important thing is not to let it get you down. Find a positive way to deal with things. Just because you failed some exams doesn't mean that you are a failure as a person.

Disclaimer, Target Audience, Jurisdiction Last updated & checked: 02/05/2007