Exams Are Over – Now What? How to Make the Most of the Wait For Results

First of all – congratulations! You’ve made it through your A-level exams, and that’s no small feat.

Whether you’re feeling relieved, exhausted or a bit of both, now is the time to take a deep breath and enjoy a well-deserved break.

However, if you’re anything like most students, waiting for exam results can feel like a strange limbo. So – what should you do during this period?

Here are some ideas to help you stay productive, positive and prepared for what comes next.

Time to recharge

You’ve been in revision mode for months, so give yourself permission to relax.

Catch up on sleep, binge that series you’ve been putting off or spend time with friends and family.

Rest isn’t something that needs to be earned – it’s essential.

Reflect on your journey

Think about what you’ve learned – not just academically, but about yourself.

What subjects did you enjoy most? What kind of teaching methods worked best for you?

These reflections can help guide your next steps, especially if you’re still considering your options.

Start preparing for September

While for some, preparing for university before Results Day might feel like tempting fate, getting ahead during the summer months can save you a lot of stress later on.

Once results are out in mid-August, there’s often a whirlwind of activity – confirming places, sorting accommodation and saying your goodbyes – leaving only a few short weeks until your first term begins.

Use this waiting period to start packing essentials, researching your new city and gathering important documents such as student finance letters.

You can also start shopping for items like bedding, kitchenware and stationery gradually, rather than in a last-minute rush.

Explore your options

Even if you’ve already applied to universities, it’s worth keeping an open mind.

Clearing is a fantastic opportunity to reconsider your choices or discover a course you hadn’t thought about before.

At the University of Chichester, we offer a wide range of courses through Clearing, and our friendly admissions team is here to help you find the right fit.

Whether you’re reconsidering your original choices or want to explore something new, we’re ready when you are.

Top Tip: Start researching now so you’re ready to act quickly when Clearing opens. You can even register your interest now on our website and gain Fast Track access!

Build your skills

This is a great time to pick up a new hobby or skill.

Whether it’s learning to cook, starting a TikTok account, or signing up for a short online course, these experiences can boost your confidence – and your CV.

Plan for Results Day

Results Day can be an emotional experience, regardless of the outcome.

Make a plan now so you’re not caught off guard.

Learn how to access your results, who to contact for advice, and what steps to take if things don’t quite go as planned.

And remember, Clearing is there for a reason. Many students find their perfect course this way, and it could be the start of something amazing.