First, compare the right things
Predicted grades are estimates used during the application process. Your offer conditions are the requirements the university set for confirming your place. If your results are lower than predicted but still meet the offer, the situation is different from missing an offer condition.
Read the full offer, including subject grades and other requirements. Then check your UCAS application status. Do not assume you have been rejected because one grade is lower than expected.
If the place is confirmed
Read the university's next-step instructions and any deadlines for enrolment or accommodation. If you no longer want the course, take advice before declining the place. Releasing a confirmed place can have consequences, and another offer is not guaranteed.
If a decision is still outstanding
Contact the university using its official admissions details. Have your UCAS ID, achieved results and offer conditions ready. Ask whether it needs anything further and when you should expect an update.
A university may confirm an applicant who narrowly misses a condition, but there is no universal one-grade tolerance. Decisions depend on the course, requirements and available places. Do not plan on a particular outcome until it is confirmed.
If you are unplaced
Check whether you are eligible for Clearing. Search official vacancies and contact providers to discuss the exact course, entry year and requirements. Ask how long any offer remains available and what you need to do in UCAS.
For 2027 entry, Clearing opens on 2 July 2027. This is not the same as A-level results day. Confirm your qualification's results date and the current year's UCAS operating times separately; phone lines and decisions do not all open at one universal time.
Keep a written record of the contact, course, conditions, deadline and next action. Before adding a Clearing choice, follow the provider's and UCAS's instructions. Do not rely on an assumption that a phone conversation guarantees confirmation.
Reviews of marking and other options
Speak to your school or college exams officer if you think a result needs checking. They can explain the relevant review process, consent requirements, fees and deadlines. Tell the university if a review may affect an offer; do not assume it will hold a place.
A review can change a mark in either direction. Resits, a later entry cycle, apprenticeships and different courses may also be worth discussing with your adviser. Check costs, eligibility and how the route fits your longer-term plans.
Prepare a calm backup plan
Before results day, save official admissions contact details, your UCAS login, offer conditions and a few courses you would seriously consider. Ask someone you trust to help with notes if you feel overwhelmed, while keeping decisions in your own hands.
Use the firm and insurance guide to understand your offers and the key dates page to track the application cycle. No guide can promise a place or a response within a set number of minutes.
Know what to work on next
Use our free application readiness check to organise outstanding tasks, or ask about independent support. It does not predict an offer or replace course-specific admissions advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a university accept me if I miss by one grade?
It may, but there is no universal rule or guarantee. Check your application status and ask the provider if a decision is outstanding.
Do I enter Clearing as soon as I miss a predicted grade?
No. Predicted grades are different from offer conditions. Check your official decisions and Clearing eligibility first.
Can I ask for a review of marking?
Ask your exams officer about the relevant process, deadlines, fees and consent. Tell the university if a review could affect an offer; it does not automatically hold a place.