A-level results day: The countdown is on

Sixth form and FE college students across England, Wales and Northern Ireland are counting down the days to A-level and T level results day.  

For some, an unconditional place at university is already in the bag, but for many others a first foray into higher education will rest on whether or not they make the grade in their exams and assessments 

For those who don’t get their conditional A-level grades, have no university offer or change their minds about where and what they’d like to study, there’s clearing – the UCAS process matching students looking for a university course with unfilled HE places. This year some 28,000 places will be available through clearing, offering students choice and flexibility, say UCAS and exam regulator Ofqual. 

Apprenticeships as an alternative to university  

Attracted by the opportunity to earn while they learn – and to not accrue student loan debt – increasing numbers of young people are considering a higher apprenticeship or degree apprenticeship after A levels or T levels.  

In fact, as we recently reported, higher apprenticeships have continued to grow in 2024/25. Latest government statistics show that in the academic year covering August 2024 to April 2025, higher apprenticeship starts increased by 11% to 111,520 against 100,490 in the same period last year. 

Level 4 apprenticeships are equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree, or a Higher National Certificate (HNC), while Level 5 apprenticeships are equivalent to a foundation degree, or a Higher National Diploma (HND). 

Clearing for apprentices?  

There isn’t a clearing process as such for prospective apprentices but there is plenty of guidance and support out there. UCAS is keen to promote apprenticeships as an alternative to the more traditional HE routes, and its website has a wealth of information including how to find an apprentice place in specific industries. Included are vacancies in a wide range of sectors, with details of starting salary, location, apply-by date and start date.  

New too this year is the UCAS CV Builder designed especially for apprenticeship applicants. And there’s also the chance for learners to gain virtual work experience with leading employers through an immersive online programme.  

Preparing for results day   

The countdown to results day can be a tentative time for students and their families. To help them prepare – and give them a better idea of how clearing works – UCAS and Ofqual have published a joint letter to students.  

This letter has some extremely useful and reassuring advice as students prepare to take the next stepping stone along their individual career paths.  

Onefile’s here to help too 

For those former A level and T level students starting an apprenticeship, we will do all we can to make the next stage in their learning journey as smooth as possible. Drawing on our wide expertise and knowledge – not to mention our suite of edtech tools and products – we’re here to support learners, their employers and training providers.  

Most of us can remember only too well the anticipation/excitement/fear we felt in the run up to results day, but whatever the outcome it’s worth knowing that there is plenty of great advice and support available. 

There’s not too long to go now so good luck to everyone!