Chapters
- First things first
- Can you get into university with lower grades than required?
- Do predicted grades have to match entry requirements?
- Can UCAS predicted grades be changed?
5. What if I don’t get into either my first or second choice?
Applying to university is a stressful and nerve-wracking time for everyone involved. Sometimes things don’t go to plan, and you could find that your UCAS predicted grades are lower than those asked for by your preferred universities. In this article, we’ll tell you what you can do to get through this challenging time and come out the other side.
First things first
Firstly - don’t panic! There are plenty of things you can do to navigate this big step and make it to the next stage of your life.
The most important thing is to know that you have got options and that there are people around you ready to support you – including teachers, parents and friends. Turn to them for guidance and assess your options before taking the next step.
Make sure to take care of yourself at this stressful time – yoga and meditation are great ways to stay calm. Some telltale signs that you may be experiencing increased levels of anxiety can include decreased concentration, inability to multitask, trouble getting on with your peers, difficulty handling feedback, interrupted sleep patterns and low energy levels. 🤯
Outlined below are a few of the most common questions you’ll likely be asking at this point, as well as answers to help guide you through this process.
Can you get into a university with lower grades than required?
Yes, it is possible to get into university even if the grades are lower than what the university requests.
If you have your heart set on a university or course, nothing should stop you from trying to get in. Your personal statement can go a long way at this stage, giving you the chance to impress with your passion for the chosen course or field of study. 🔥
All applications are reviewed on an individual basis, so every part of it goes towards the university or college’s ultimate decision.
Do predicted grades have to match entry requirements?
Your predicted grades don’t have to match entry requirements. If your predicted grades are lower than expected, stay calm. 🧘 Keep in mind that predicted grades aren’t always correct, and you could find that you achieve above and beyond what was expected.
Applicants do not always have to meet the entry requirements with their predicted grades to receive an offer – universities and colleges will assess applications on an individual basis.
Predicted grades that are lower than the entry requirements set by your chosen universities shouldn’t stop you from applying to those institutions.
Can UCAS predicted grades be changed?
Teachers cannot change predicted grades on request. If you show significant improvement over a term they might be able to update them but it is unlikely.
Instead, we recommend that you talk to your teacher about all of the different options available. It is crucial to include your parents or guardians in these conversations if you would like their support at this stage. Your teachers may suggest opportunities that you have never considered before.
It’s key to understand the importance of your schoolwork and upcoming exams as they will determine your grades. Check out these excellent study methods that will help you improve your ability to retain information, and support you in preparing for GCSEs etc.
What if I don’t get into either my first or second choice?
If you find yourself in this situation, try your best to stay calm. After the initial disappointment, it is important that you get online and start looking at courses available through clearing. UCAS has plenty of resources on this, as well as the universities themselves.
Clearing is the process where leftover spaces on courses are filled by students who didn’t necessarily meet the initial requirements. It can be a stressful process that takes a couple of days but it’s important to explore every option you can - there’s no need to jump at the first place that’s offered. Every university you call will likely be thrilled to help and will give the best advice they can.
The most important thing is that you feel calm and supported no matter which way things go. At the end of the day, predicted grades are only a guideline and they are just a part of your university application. 🙌
Choosing a university or college is one of the first big decisions we have to make and we are constantly reminded that it could affect the rest of our lives. So, remember that while lower predicted grades could feel like the end of your chances, it is only the beginning of your journey.
