Northumbria University issues advice to students ahead of A-level results day

As A-level results day approaches on Thursday 17 August, Northumbria University is urging students not to worry and to consider going through Clearing if their results are not what they were expecting, or they’ve changed their mind about what or where to study.

Many people still believe that Clearing is only for students who haven’t secured one of their original UCAS choices or have received lower grades than expected, but this isn’t true.

Clearing also allows students to choose a different course if they have received better grades than expected, changed their mind about what or where to study, or decided to come to university after sitting their exams, for example, after working or having a gap year.

Psychology graduate Elise Taylor had been accepted at her first-choice institution, but reconsidered this offer when she realised she wanted to stay closer to home. Elise knew the city of Newcastle well and had heard a lot about the course from friends who had attended an open day at the University.

Although she wasn’t familiar with the Clearing process, she was supported every step of the way, as she explains: “I called the Clearing hotline and they guided me through the whole thing. Members of staff kept in contact with me over email, so I always felt like I was in the loop with how my application was progressing and I was confident that if I had questions, someone would be around to answer them.

“I’ve loved my university experience and I am so happy that I made the last minute decision to study at Northumbria. My advice to anyone about to go through the Clearing process would be to not panic. It was actually really simple, made easier as everyone I spoke to went above and beyond to help me out.”

After not quite meeting the grades she needed to get onto her original course, Renee Fraser-Shepherd was offered a foundation year at Northumbria and didn’t look back.

Knowing that she wanted to run a business one day, Renee chose to study Entrepreneurial Business Management at foundation level before joining the undergraduate degree course the following year.

Speaking about her experience, Renee said: “I was apprehensive at first as I was keen to get started with my degree, but it was definitely the best decision for me. It has been a privilege to get an extra year to understand my subject and the business world.”

As part of the course, Renee successfully launched her own business, Sloobie Skiwear, with support from Northumbria’s Student and Graduate Enterprise team. She added: “The support from Northumbria has been fantastic, and very extensive! I’ve been presented with some great opportunities throughout my degree and my professional network has grown significantly, which is something I can take with me as I continue to grow my business.”

Northumbria University has a number of courses available in Clearing this year, ranging from nursing, engineering, accounting and finance courses to interior design, computer science, fashion and tourism degrees.

The process of applying through Clearing is extremely straightforward and Northumbria University has a team of specially trained staff to help guide students through the process and answer any questions or concerns they may have.

Helen Bower, who is responsible for student recruitment at Northumbria University, said: “We know that A-level results day can be a stressful time for students, but we are here to help.

“We have a dedicated team of staff on hand to offer advice and guidance, whatever your circumstances. Some students may have done better than expected; others may not have got the grades they hoped for, and some may have changed their mind since applying and want to study a different course or go to a different university. The important thing to remember is that there are always options available to you.

“We would encourage any students with any questions to give us a call. We can discuss your individual situation, the grades you have and talk through the options open to you. We have a wide range of courses available and will help you find the right course for you.”

Northumbria University has a limited number of places available for high quality students through Clearing this summer.

For more information, visit www.northumbria.ac.uk/clearing or call the Clearing Hotline on 0800 085 1085.

The Clearing Hotline is open on the following dates and times:

• Thursday 17th August - 8am-8pm
• Friday 18th August - 8.30am-5pm
• · Saturday 19th August - 10am-3pm