What to expect on Results Day?

Whether you’re feeling excited, nervous, or a mix of emotions about your results, it’s completely normal to feel unsure about what the day may bring.

The guide below will take you through what you can expect on Results Day, including how to collect your results and what your options are afterwards.

When is Results Day 2026?

August 13th 2026: 

  • AS/A Level
  • Level 3 Applied Certificates and Diplomas
  • Extended Project
  • Foundation Diploma in Art and Design

August 20th 2026:

  • GCSE
  • Level 1/2 Vocational Awards and Certificates
  • Entry Level
  • Level 1&2 Certificates (Latin and Additional Maths)
  • Language Pathways

 

How do I collect my results on Results Day?

Most schools and colleges will tell students prior to the day how and when your results can be collected.

The most common way to collect your results is in person on the morning of Results Day, however some schools or colleges may provide results online or by email.

For information on alternative ways to collect your results, including accessing via the DfE's Education Record app for GCSE results in England, please speak to your school or college.

Before Results Day, you should:

  • Check with your school/college if you need to go in to collect your results
  • Check what time the results are available
  • Make sure you have any login details you may need (e.g. UCAS for A levels students wishing to attend university)
  • Contact your school or college if you are unable to attend in person

Can someone else pick up my results?

This depends on the school or college you attend, so be sure to check with them in advance!

 

What happens on Results Day?

Results Day can feel busy and emotional, especially if it’s your first time receiving exam grades. There are many ways to make the day feel more manageable, from opening your results with friends or family, speaking to your teachers or wellbeing advisors – there’s no right or wrong way to do it, whatever helps you feel most supported.

For A level students, your university application status may be updated through UCAS before or shortly after receiving your grades. 

Tips to help on Results Day:

  • Speak to teachers or support staff if you need any help or advice on the day
  • Give yourself time to process your results

A level students:

  • Have your UCAS login details ready
  • Make a note of your university choices phone numbers and any other choices that offer clearing*, in case things don’t go to plan 

*Clearing is the process that helps students find university courses with available places after Results Day. Find out more about clearing here.

 

What happens if I don't get the grades I hoped for?

The first thing is to take a breath and remember you’re not alone! Results Day can be a stressful day for some, and it can feel overwhelming when you’re unsure of the next steps.

So, what should you do?

1) Ask for help

There are many people you can speak to from teachers and parents to career advisers and even the college or university you hope to attend.

2) Understand your options

Some of your options could look like: 

  • Appealing or requesting a review of marking
  • Clearing
  • Re-sitting your exams
  • Taking a gap year

We’ve put together GCSE and A level guides to help you explore these different pathways in more detail!

3) Take a moment

Although it may feel like a setback, your results don’t define you. Exam grades are only a part of your journey and it’s important to recognise that you made it this far! Take a moment to collect your thoughts and practice some deep breathing to help calm any worries.

 

What happens if I do better than I was expecting?

Doing better than expected can open up new opportunities. Some students choose to:

  • Explore different academic or career pathways
  • Explore different sixth forms, or colleges, or universities
  • Explore different courses

Before making quick decisions, it’s worth taking some time to understand all your options. A good place to start is by doing some research and speak to teachers or advisers.  

 

Remember to celebrate your achievements

Whether your results are exactly what you expected or not, completing your exams is a huge achievement! 
Results Day can bring a mix of emotions, so make sure to take some time to acknowledge the small and big wins of the day!

 

Further support

For more information on Results Day, check out our ‘Frequently asked questions’ and our post-results pages.