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Are you thinking about your options after GCSEs or Nationals?

We've put together some useful information to support your decision-making as you continue into further study, onto technical and vocational pathways or onto an apprenticeship. We also take a look at the help that's available if you didn't get the grades you expected.

What next if you'd like to focus on an academic route?

• If you'd like to focus on academic subjects in more detail, then A-levels – or Highers for Scottish students – in school or college, might be right for you. This route could lead to higher education or work. You may want to change your mind if your results are different to what you expect. Speak to your school or college who'll be able to give you more specific advice.

What next if you're interested in taking a vocational route?

• Speak to your local college or your careers advisor about doing a technical or hands-on course. If you're based in England, you could also consider doing a T-level. T-levels are a new type of course, launched in 2020. A T-level combines studying with hands-on experience and an extended work placement. A T-Level is equivalent to three A-levels. You can find more information on T-levels here.
• If you'd like to do a course which involves not just exams, but also coursework or work experience, a Level 3 vocational course or advanced apprenticeship might be right for you. You might be able to combine a vocational qualification with an A-level. In Scotland, a Foundation apprenticeship is equivalent to one Higher and can be combined with other Highers. This route could lead to higher education or work. You can find out more about apprenticeships in Scotland here.
• Some people need a little extra study time before starting a Level 3 course. Some courses, such as onsite construction or hair and beauty require you to gain some knowledge and hand skills before going onto a higher level. In England, you might be ready for an immediate apprenticeship. Your local college or training provider will be able to advise on the best option for you.
• In England, Wales and Northern Ireland there will be opportunities to continue to improve your English and Maths if you haven’t achieved a pass at GCSE. Your school, college or training provider will be able to give you more information.
• In Scotland, you can call the Skills Development Scotland Helpline for free on 0800 917 8000 and an advisor will be able to give you advice about what your next steps may be before starting an apprenticeship.

What next if you're unhappy with your grades

If you aren't happy with the grades you got in your GCSEs or Nationals, or think that your papers might have been marked incorrectly, check out our guide for what your options are.

If you aren't sure what you want to do next, speak to your school, college or careers advisor.

Some things to remember:

• As well as school or college careers advisers, there are lots of online resources you can consult to see what options are available in your area.
• Some university courses, for example nursing, midwifery, police sciences, medicine, dentistry or teacher training, require a grade 4, 5 or 6 in Maths and English at GCSE, or equivalent. It’s worth considering resits if you don’t get these grades, as this may prevent you from choosing a specific university course in the future. Speak to your school or college for advice.
• You can find out which grades universities need by doing a course search on the UCAS website.

If you need support

You should always tell someone about the things you’re worried about. You can tell a friend, parent, guardian, teacher, or another trusted adult. If you're struggling with your mental health, going to your GP can be a good place to start to find help. Your GP can let you know what support is available to you, suggest different types of treatment and offer regular check-ups to see how you’re doing.

If you’re in need of in-the-moment support you can contact , where you can speak to a counsellor. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

There are more links to helpful organisations on ���˿��� Action Line.