A Level Results Day 2026: Key Dates & What Happens Next

A Level Results Day 2026 is one of the most important days of your school life. After months of hard work, revision, and exams, this is when you finally discover your results and what they mean for your next steps.

If you are feeling nervous, you are not alone. This guide explains everything you need to know, including when results are released, how to collect them, what your UCAS updates mean, and what to do if your grades are higher or lower than expected.

Key Takeaways

• A Level Results Day 2026 is Thursday 13 August 2026 across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

• You can collect your results in person from your school or view them online.

• UCAS Hub updates from the morning to show whether your university place has been confirmed.

• Whatever your results, there are always next steps, from confirmed offers to Clearing, appeals, or resits.

When Is A Level Results Day 2026?

A Level Results Day takes place on Thursday 13 August 2026. Schools and colleges across the UK will release grades to students, and UCAS Hub will update from around 8 a.m. UK time to deliver decisions on university offers.

Each school decides its own collection times, usually between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. If you are collecting results in person, check your school’s schedule and bring photo ID.

For students abroad or studying remotely, your results may be emailed to you or available via an online portal.

How to Get Your A Level Results

There are three main ways to access your results.

1. Collecting Results in Person

Most students collect results at school.

• Bring photo ID, such as a passport or student card.

• Arrive at your school’s designated time and venue.

• Bring a pen and notebook in case you want to take notes or ask teachers for advice.

• If you cannot attend, you can authorise someone else to collect your results with written permission and ID.

2. Checking Results Online

If your school uses an online portal, you can usually log in from 8 a.m. on results day.

• Keep your login details and UCAS Personal ID ready.

• Check UCAS Hub (opens in a new tab) for updates on your offers.

• Download a copy of your statement of results for your records.

3. Receiving Results by Email or Post

Some schools send results electronically or by post.

• Confirm your contact details before results day.

• Be aware that posted results may arrive later in the day or the following morning.

Understanding Your UCAS Status

Your UCAS Hub will show your updated university application status on results day. 

Here is what each one means:

What to Do If You Get the Grades You Need

Congratulations, your hard work has paid off. Here is what to do next.

1. Check UCAS Hub. Your firm choice should now show as unconditional.

2. Confirm your place. Most universities confirm automatically, but double-check in UCAS.

3. Prepare for university. Arrange accommodation, apply for student finance, and review your reading lists.

4. Celebrate your success. You earned it. Take time to enjoy the moment.

5. Consider your options. If you want to defer or take a gap year, contact your university as soon as possible.

What to Do If You Don’t Get the Grades You Expected

If you did not get the results you hoped for, try to stay calm. There are still plenty of options available.

1. Check UCAS Hub

Your first step is to log in and see whether your university has accepted you anyway. Many universities show flexibility, especially if you were close to the grade boundaries.

2. Explore UCAS Clearing

UCAS Clearing opens in early July and runs until October.

• Use the UCAS Clearing Search Tool (opens in a new tab) to see available courses.

• Contact universities directly. They will guide you through the process.

• Once you accept a Clearing offer, it becomes your firm choice.

3. Request a Review of Marking

If a result seems unexpectedly low, ask your school about a remark. Keep in mind that grades can go up, down, or stay the same. Check our guide on how to appeal A Level results for more details.

4. Consider Retakes or Alternative Routes

If you want to improve your results, you can resit A Levels in the next exam session.
Other options include:

• Foundation years for university entry.

• BTECs or vocational courses.

• Apprenticeships combining study and work experience.

If you’re considering retaking your exams, make sure you head to Save My Exams’ A Level revision resources for expert-created revision notes, past papers and exam questions to help you.

What If You Do Better Than Expected?

If your grades are higher than your firm offer, you may be able to upgrade through UCAS Adjustment or Clearing Plus.

• Log in to UCAS Hub to view available courses.

• Contact universities directly to discuss your options.
  You will only lose your confirmed place if you officially accept another offer. Whatever you decide, take time to celebrate your achievement.

How to Prepare Before Results Day

We’ve all been there and still remember the feeling! But honestly, a little preparation really does help to reduce stress and ensure you’re ready for any outcome on results day.

Here are some pointers:

• Check when and how your school will release results.

• Make sure you can access your UCAS login and know your Personal ID.

• Keep contact details for your chosen universities, teachers, and advisers.

• Charge your phone and bring photo ID.

• Get a good night’s sleep and plan something relaxing for later in the day.

For more advice on managing those inevitable ‘wobbly’ moments, read our guide on how to deal with results day nerves. 

A Level Results Day Checklist

Before and during results day, keep this list handy:

•  UCAS login details

•  Mobile phone and charger

•  Clearing number and UCAS Personal ID

•  Contact details for universities and teachers

•  Photo ID

•  Pen and a notebook

•  Copy of your predicted grades and offers

•  A bottle of water and snacks

•  A supportive friend or family member (if you think they’ll help)

What Happens After Results Day

Once you have your results, your next steps depend on your plans.

• Confirm your offer. If your university place is secure, your UCAS status will show as unconditional.

• Sort out student finance and accommodation. Complete any outstanding forms and payments.

• Get ready for university. Read welcome emails, join group chats, and look over course materials.

• Plan for alternatives. If you are retaking exams, taking a gap year, or choosing a new direction, make a timeline to stay on track.

You can find more support in Save My Exams’ results day advice and university guides.

Frequently Asked Questions

What time are A Level results released?

Results are generally available from 8 a.m. UK time, but check with your school. UCAS updates at the same time.

Can I get my results online?

Yes. Many schools share results via secure portals or email. Confirm with your exams officer beforehand.

What does Clearing mean?

Clearing is a UCAS process that allows students without confirmed places to apply for courses with available spaces. It runs from early July to October.

What should I do if I think my grades are wrong?

Speak to your school about a review of marking. You can request a remark, but be aware that your grade could go up, down, or stay the same.

How can I prepare for A Level results day emotionally?

Get enough sleep, plan how you will spend the day, and have someone supportive with you. Remember that grades do not define your worth. There are always opportunities ahead.

Final Thoughts

A Level Results Day can feel intense, but it marks the start of a new chapter. Whatever your grades, there are always routes forward and plenty of people ready to support you.

Take a moment to celebrate your hard work and resilience. Then, when you are ready, explore your options with confidence.

For expert support and resources, visit Save My Exams’ A Level revision resources and results day guides to help you stay prepared for what comes next. Good luck!

References

• JCQ | Key dates in the examination cycle (opens in a new tab)

• AQA | Exams Admin | Results days (opens in a new tab)

• UCAS Hub (opens in a new tab)

• UCAS Clearing search tool (opens in a new tab)