A-Level results day arrives on Thursday, August 13, 2026, with students across England, Northern Ireland, and Wales set to receive their grades. In Scotland, results were already published on Tuesday, August 4. The outcome can determine university placements, but students have alternatives if results fall short, including clearing, resits, or reapplying next year. For those who believe their results are incorrect, an appeals process exists, and this guide outlines the steps.
When Are Results Released and How Are They Delivered?
Results are available from 8am on the day, or whenever the educational institution opens, according to the Department for Education. Schools may also email or post results, but collecting them in person allows immediate access to teacher guidance. Vocational qualifications like BTECs at Level Three, studied alongside or instead of A Levels, will also be issued on or before Thursday, August 13.
Students should check with their school or college for specific arrangements. The Department for Education advises that attending in person provides the best support, as teachers can help interpret grades and discuss next steps, including clearing options.
How to Appeal Your A-Level Grades
To contest a grade, students must first approach their school or college. The institution can then submit a request to the exam board for a re-mark of the examination. For students at independent schools, the application can go directly to the exam board or through the school that processed the entry.
After submission, the exam board reviews the work and original marking for errors. If discrepancies are found, the grade may be adjusted upward or downward. If concerns persist, students can ask their school to lodge a formal appeal, prompting the board to re-examine the work and decide if the mark changes.
Further Appeals and Key Deadlines
If the appeal process is unsatisfactory, students can request a review from Ofqual, the Office of Qualifications and Examination Regulation, which investigates how the exam board handled the appeal. It is crucial to check the exam board's deadline for reviews, as unsuccessful appeals may incur a charge.
Students are advised to act promptly, as deadlines vary by board. The appeals process can take time, so early action is essential. For those considering clearing, results day offers a chance to secure alternative courses, and schools often provide guidance on available options.
