For those who aren't familiar with the clearing system, it can seem a little daunting.

Students can apply for clearing from 5 July to 23 October if:

• they are applying after 30 June;
• they didn’t receive any offers (or none they wanted to accept);
• they didn’t meet the conditions of the offers.

Unfortunately, there are likely to be a few students in every college who miss their offer grades. Thankfully, schools tend to have highly skilled teachers who can assist students in navigating the clearing process. 

But what would Louise Evans, head of adviser and provider experience at Ucas, advise teachers, parents and students in this situation? Posing the following three questions is crucial. 

1. Have I definitely missed out on my offers?

It is always worth checking with the institution before going into the clearing process, even if a student has not received the grades they asked for, says Evans. “Make sure students speak to their chosen university or college once they know their final grades,” she advises, as universities and colleges may consider applications even if they are slightly below their specified grades.

2. Is going to university this year the only option?

A conversation is needed as soon as you know the answer to step one is definitely "no": is going to university this year essential? 

If going to university this autumn is definitely what the student wants to do, then it is worth looking at the clearing process as soon as possible, says Evans.

“Official clearing choices can be added from 3pm on results day, on the 16 August,” Evans says. 

Starting early maximises options and also is a productive way to respond to disappointing news. 

3. Is delaying going to university an option?

Rushing into a snap decision so you can still go to university this year is not always the best idea. Evans says that for many students, considering their options and applying again next year might be best. 

“Applying for next year is always an option and the Ucas website has all the information students and advisers need, including details of courses starting in September 2019.”

Taking a year out can be a valuable choice, and for anyone who already has their exam results, the path can be a lot clearer after the craziness of results day. 

Elliot Douglas is a student at the University of St Andrews. He tweets @ElliotDee