Results Day can be a stressful time. But lots of young people find it helpful to make sure they're ready for the day in advance, so they know what to expect and who to turn to whatever happens.
When is Results Day 2026?
A-Level, BTEC Level 3 and T-Level:
Thursday 13 August 2026
GCSE and BTEC Level 2:
Thursday 20 August 2026
What time do results come out?
Most schools open their doors from around 8am for students to collect results in person. The exact time varies by school, so check with yours in advance so you’re not caught out on the day.
New for 2026: students in England will also be able to access their GCSE results digitally through the government’s new Education Record app from 11am on results day. Your school will let you know if they’re using it and how to set it up. That said, it’s still worth going in person if you can, especially if you want to speak to a teacher about your options.
Before you do anything else, make sure the basics are in place:
Know how you’re getting your results.
Are you going into school?
Will you get an email?
Know who you can talk to if results aren’t as hoped.
For example your teacher, college, or the results helpline.
Talk to friends and family.
Talk about what you’ll do on the day!
Who can you talk to if your results aren't what you hoped?
- Talk to your school, college or education setting first. They know you well and will be able to advise you of your best options.
- Research the local offer. Our website is a good place to start: workwiltshire.co.uk/young-work-wiltshire
- Contact the National Careers Service at nationalcareers.service.gov.uk The Exam Results Helpline is open daily from 8am to 8pm on weekdays and 10am to 5pm on Saturdays 0800 100 900
- The Uni Guide has advice on what to expect and what to do on results day:
- GCSE results day 2026: what to expect,theuniguide.co.uk
- Clearing and A-Level results day, theuniguide.co.uk
- Childline can offer support if you're feeling anxious about your results: childline.org.uk/info-advice/school-college-and-work/school-college/exam-results
If you are aged 16 to 17 and are finding it hard to stay in education or to find a place for September, please register for support with our Education Employment Advisers. It’s not too late to find a suitable place for you, so don’t hesitate to get in touch: workwiltshire.co.uk/help-and-support
What if I want to appeal my results?
If a grade looks lower than you expected, you can ask your school to request a review of marking through the exam board. You’ll need to act quickly as appeal deadlines fall in early September. Speak to your exams officer or head of year on results day if you think this applies to you. Be aware that grades can go down as well as up following a review.
What if I need to resit?
If you didn’t get a grade 4 or above in Maths or English GCSE, you’ll need to resit. Resits for Maths and English can be taken in November 2026, with results in January. Resits for other subjects are available in summer 2027. You can often resit alongside your A-Level or other post-16 studies, but speak to your college or sixth form about how this works for them.
How Can You Use The Exam Results Helpline?
Looking for an apprenticeship?
If you’re thinking about doing an apprenticeship after GCSEs or A Levels, you don’t need to wait for results before you start looking. You can register, research and even apply for some opportunities. Look for those accepting predicted grades.
Contact your local FE colleges and ask about apprenticeships:
Wiltshire College:
wiltshire.ac.uk
New College Swindon:
newcollege.ac.uk
Bath College:
bathcollege.ac.uk
Frequently Asked Questions
When is Results Day 2026?
A-Level results day is Thursday 13 August 2026. GCSE results day is Thursday 20 August 2026.
What time do GCSE results come out?
Most schools open for collection from around 8am, though the exact time varies by school so it’s worth checking in advance. From 2026, results will also be available via the new government Education Record app from 11am on results day.
What should I do if my results aren't what I expected?
Don’t panic. Start by talking to your school or college, they know you and your situation best. You can also call the Exam Results Helpline on 0800 100 900, which is free and open 8am to 8pm on weekdays and 10am to 5pm on Saturdays. If you’re thinking about university, contact UCAS about Clearing straight away as places fill up quickly.
What is Clearing and how does it work?
Clearing is the process that matches students to university places that are still available after results day. If you didn’t get the grades your first-choice university needed, or if you’re applying for the first time, Clearing gives you another route in. You can find out more at ucas.com.
Can I appeal my results?
Yes. If a grade looks unexpectedly low, you can ask your school to submit a review of marking through the exam board. Deadlines fall in early September, so don’t delay. Be aware that grades can go down as well as up following a review.
Can I still do an apprenticeship if my results weren't great?
Yes. Many apprenticeships don’t require specific grades, and some are specifically designed for young people who want to earn and learn rather than stay in full-time education. You can search available apprenticeships at findapprenticeship.service.gov.uk.
What if I'm 16 or 17 and don't have a place for September?
If you’re aged 16 to 17 and don’t yet have a place in education, employment or training for September, Work Wiltshire can help. Contact our Education Employment Advisers on 01225 716890 or email workwilts@wiltshire.gov.uk.
Do I have to stay in education after GCSEs?
You don’t have to stay in school, but you do have to stay in some form of education or training until the August after you turn 18. That could be sixth form, college, an apprenticeship, or part-time training alongside work or volunteering.