Applying to university is a significant moment filled with anticipation and hope. However, after exam results day not everyone will get a spot at their first-choice institution. While this might initially seem disheartening, it can open doors to unexpected and new opportunities – and it’s far from the end of your academic journey….
It’s OK to be Disappointed
If your exam results aren’t what you thought they might be there’s a few things you might do about it – here’s some positive steps to take if you’re unhappy with your A-level results which apply to most qualifications.
You’re Not Alone: What Percentage of Students Get into Their First-Choice University?
Securing a place at your top university is a dream for many students. According to UCAS data, approximately 79% of students received offers from their first-choice universities in 2023.
This leaves a significant number who must consider alternative options. Understanding this statistic should help you a little – there’s thousands of other people who go through this each year. It’s really nothing to worry about.
Exploring Your Options: What to Do If You Don’t Get Your First Choice
Understanding the Clearing Process
Your first option might be to find out more about Clearing. It’s a vital process for students who do not receive offers from their chosen universities. It provides you a second chance to find a suitable course and university. During Clearing, universities advertise available spots and students can apply directly to these institutions. Here’s some quick tips that could help you throughout Clearing:
- Stay Calm and Research: Review available courses and universities through UCAS Extra.
- Contact Universities: Reach out to universities with vacancies.
- Prepare Your Pitch: Be ready to explain why you are interested in the course.
- Make Your Decision About Your Firm and Insurance Choices: Choose the best option for you and confirm your place.
I also have always loved the city of Brighton – coming from London it’s got all the things I love about being at home, with none of the downsides
Eva Martin, Pharmacy student
Considering Alternative Offers
If your first-choice university doesn’t come through, you might receive offers from other universities or consider your insurance choice. These offers can still provide excellent education and experiences, even if they are from your insurance choice. Evaluate these options based on what matters most to you when selecting a uni:
- Course Content: Does it align with your interests and career goals?
- University Reputation: How is the institution regarded in your field of study?
- Location and Campus Life at Your Chosen Uni: Will you enjoy living and studying there?
Taking a Gap Year
A gap year can be a beneficial alternative if you need more time to decide or wish to reapply to universities. During a gap year, you can:
- Gain Work Experience: Enhance your CV and gain practical skills that can bolster your university choice.
- Travel and Volunteer: Broaden your horizons and develop personally – there’s plenty of gap year options, adventure sports as well as cultural activities you could get involved in.
- Improve Your Application: Strengthen your university application with additional qualifications or experiences.
Second Choice Universities: Be Positive
Right now you might have your heart set on a specific institution or course. Once results day has come and gone, and especially after the first few weeks at your second choice university, you’ll probably wonder why you were really so bothered.
Take a good look at their digital prospectus and pick up some tips about living in the area – there will also probably be open days you can book onto. Until you get settled in, all you need to do is stay positive and get to know all the great things about where you’ll be studying next year.
Personal Growth and New Opportunities
Attending a university other than your first choice can also lead to unexpected opportunities. It encourages adaptability and resilience, traits highly valued in personal and professional settings. Additionally, different universities offer unique programmes, extracurricular activities and networking opportunities that might be a better fit for you.
Second Choice Universities: Success Stories
Many successful and famous individuals didn’t attend their first-choice universities – here’s a few interesting examples:
J.K. Rowling
- First Choice: Oxford University
- Outcome: Rejected
- Alternative: Attended the University of Exeter, where she studied French and the Classics. Despite not getting into her first choice, she went on to become one of the most successful authors in history with her Harry Potter series of books.
Tom Hanks
- First Choice: University of Southern California (USC) School of Cinematic Arts
- Outcome: Rejected
- Alternative: Attended Chabot College, a community college, and then transferred to California State University, Sacramento. He eventually dropped out to pursue acting full-time, leading to his successful acting career.
Steven Spielberg
- First Choice: University of Southern California (USC) School of Cinematic Arts
- Outcome: Rejected multiple times
- Alternative: Attended California State University, Long Beach. Despite the rejection, Spielberg became one of the most iconic film directors and producers in Hollywood.
Meredith Vieira
- First Choice: Harvard University
- Outcome: Rejected
- Alternative: Attended Tufts University, where she earned her degree and went on to become a well-known journalist and television host.
These examples show that not getting into a first-choice university does not preclude success. Many individuals find alternative paths that lead them to great achievements in their careers and lives.
Making the Most of Your Second Choice University
Adopting a Positive Mindset
Approach your university experience with an open mind. Embrace the new environment, make new friends and participate in campus activities at your chosen uni. A positive attitude can transform your experience and lead to unexpected successes.
Engaging with Campus Life
Get involved in clubs, societies, and other extracurricular activities. These can enrich your university experience, provide networking opportunities and help you develop new skills and interests.
Utilising Academic and Career Support
Take advantage of the academic and career support services offered by your university. These resources can provide guidance, help you stay on track with your studies and prepare you for your future career.
Didn’t get your first choice university? (Don’t worry, you’re just getting started 🙂
Missing out on your first-choice university can be a steppingstone rather than a setback. By exploring alternative options, embracing new opportunities and maintaining a positive outlook, you can have a fulfilling and successful university experience. For more information and support, take a look around the resources on this blog, especially as results day approaches.