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Understanding exam results
Results day can feel like a lot. Whether you're checking your GCSEs, A Levels or figuring out UCAS points, we'll help you make sense of it all without the jargon.
Between revising tricky science topics, re-reading your English lit books, and brushing up on your long division, exam season can be pretty overwhelming. Add in grade boundaries, UCAS points, as well as uni applications, and it’s easy to feel like the whole thing’s just going over your head.
Pop the kettle on, we're here to talk it through. Whether you're knee-deep in revision or supporting someone who’s sitting their exams, it's a lot simpler than it seems.
Understanding the basics
GCSE grades
GCSEs are graded from 9 to 1, with 9 being the highest and 1 being the lowest.
Pass marks
To pass a subject you’ll need to get at least a grade 4, they also call this a standard pass.
Some employers, colleges, and unis may ask for a Grade 5 or above, which is known as a strong pass.
A Levels
A Levels still stick to the alphabetical grading system from A* to E. These are the results unis will mostly be looking at.
Grade boundaries
The marks you need for each grade change every year based on how hard the test is and how well students have done overall.
GCSE grades
GCSEs used to be graded from A* to G, which is the system most people are familiar with.
The new system is a bit different, for example, a 4 is roughly the same as a C, while a 7 is closer to a low A.
Results slip
After the long wait is over and its finally results day, you'll get your results slip with all your grades on it.
It'll usually include your subjects, grades, marks, and the grade boundaries. Some also show your candidate number and the exam board, keep note of this if you need to contact them about a result.
Things to think about:
Are you close to a grade boundary?
Have you met the entry requirements for your next step?
Are there any results you’d like reviewed?
UCAS Points Explained (A Levels)
If you've decided uni’s your next step, you might need to apply with UCAS points. These are worked out by converting your grades into numbers, and some unis use this to decide who to offer a place to.
This is how each grade converts into UCAS points:
A* = 56 | A = 48 | B = 40 | C = 32 | D = 24 | E = 16
For example:
A, B, C = 120 points
Understanding University Offers
UCAS Points
These are the points used by universities to compare qualifications, they're converted from your A Level results.
Offers
Offers can be based on grades (e.g. BBB) or a minimum amount of UCAS points (e.g. 120 points).
A conditional offer means you’ll need to meet the required grades, while an unconditional means your place is already guaranteed regardless of your final exam results.
Predicted vs actual
Predicted grades are used for applications. Your final results are what get you the place.
What If Results Aren’t What You Expected?
It can be really disappointing to not get the results you were hoping for, but there are still plenty of options open. Getting to grips with the possible next steps will help you make the right decision for you.
Remarks
If your marks were really close to a grade boundary, it might be worth asking for a marking review. This checks whether your exam was marked correctly, potentially netting you a few extra marks, and possibly even a grade change.
Resits
If your final grade was lower than predicted or you didn't pass, you might have the option to retake the exam. It's common for students to resit GCSE Maths and English, while A Levels are usually resat the next year.
Alternatives
University isn't your only option. Courses where you learn through practice (like BTECs), apprenticeships, or alternative college routes can help you achieve your long-term goals.
