It's Scottish Results Day, But What Comes Next?

You’ve waited. You’ve worried. And now it’s arrived – Scottish Results Day. 

From checking your being up all night waiting for your grades to logging into your exam results, today might feel like everything’s changing all at once. For some, it’s a high-five moment. For others, it’s full of uncertainty.

Don’t worry though, we’ve got you covered. The truth is that no matter what’s on your results slip, this is just one part of your academic journey, and you’re not in it alone. This guide will take you through the best next steps with practical advice, real options, and setting a clearer path to university success.

Step One: Don’t Panic – There’s Still Time

If you got the grades you were hoping for, that’s amazing! It’s time to confirm your place and celebrate you achievement. If things didn’t go as planned, that’s also fine. Thousands of students each year find a fresh start through clearing, re-evaluation, or flexible entry options.

Here’s what to do next:

• Check UCAS Track or your SQA portal to see the status of your application,
• If your place isn’t confirmed, don’t assume it’s a no – it could still be processing.
• If you fell short, Clearing opens up new opportunities.
• Achieved higher than expected? Some universities may still offer you an upgrade.

And if you’re still figuring things out – that’s a valid reaction. There’s time to explore your next steps.

Didn’t Hit Your Target Grades?

You’re far from alone. Clearing exists because of this reason, and it’s a great system for getting into university.

Each year, vast numbers of students secure a brilliant university place after Results Day. You could find a course that better fits your goals, discover a new passion, or choose a location that excites you even more than your original choice.

How to Approach it:

• Start searching for a course right away by using UCAS or university websites.
• Get on the phone early – speaking to admissions can make a big difference.
• Stay open to studying different subjects or attending universities that match your strengths and interests.
• Look for support – many universities offer help for students coming through Clearing or via non-traditional routes.

Remember, clearing isn’t about settling – it’s about adapting, and that’s something to be proud of.

Got Higher Grades Than Expected?

Congratulations! That’s a fantastic achievement that should be celebrated. It can also open a few more doors for you.

You can of course stick with your original offer and enter your course with added confidence. Or, you may now qualify for a different university or subject that better suits your ambitions.

If you do want to change, make sure to do your research and explore the degrees that are now within your reach. It may also be a good idea to take a gap year and re-applying with your confirmed results next time around.

Still on the Fence About University? Here’s What it Can Offer

If you’re unsure about making the jump into higher education, you’re among plenty of like minded people. Before ruling it out though, there’s a few things you should take into account – as it’s a big decision to make, one way or the other.

Here’s what makes it worth considering:

• Studying something you’re passionate about. From creative arts to data science and beyond, university has a course for almost everyone.
• Meeting people from everywhere. University bring people and cultures from around the world to once place – giving you the chance to forge new friendships and make memories for life.
• Boost your career prospects. Graduates typically earn more and have wider access to professional roles.
• Develop life skills. Independent living, budgeting, time management, and more – you’ll leave with more than just academic expertise.

You don’t need a five or ten-year plan. You just need to stay curious.

Thinking About Studying in Scotland? Here Are Some Top Universities

Scotland is renowned for its rich academic heritage, flexible degree structures, and welcoming student environments. Many courses span four years, giving you extra room to experiment, specialise, or even change direction completely in your first year.

University of Edinburgh

Set in a historic location, with a wide range of academic strengths, and a global reputation

• Interesting areas: AI research, medicine, languages.
• Edinburgh is a city packed with culture, green spaces, and international appeal.

University of Glasgow

Creative, culturally diverse, and forward-thinking – a great student destination with global connections.

• Interesting areas: engineering, social sciences, and arts.
• Glasgow is a vibrant city with loads to do on campus and beyond – from live gigs to botanical gardens.

University of St. Andrews

Compact and well-respected, St. Andrews has a close-knit student community and stunning coastal views.

• Interesting areas: international relations, science, and philosophy
• High student satisfaction ratings and excellent teaching standards.

University of Aberdeen

Historic, yet affordable, with a focus on innovation.

• Interesting areas: health, environmental science, and engineering.
• A city with a unique mix of nature, tradition and modern facilities.

University of Strathclyde (Glasgow)

Ideal for those looking for strong career prospects and hands-on learning.

• Interesting areas: business, technology, and engineering.
• A city-centre location makes getting around Glasgow easy.

Picked your university, but still in need of a place to stay? Check-out our fantastic student accommodation options in Scotland and the rest of the UK.

Your Next Chapter Starts Here

Scottish Results Day isn’t the end of the road – it’s a turn onto the next one.

There is no single map that leads to success. What matters is that you keep moving forward in a way that feels right to you. Whether you’re jumping head first into uni life, or taking some time to decide, there’s value in every decision you make.

This is the time to celebrate how far you’ve come and remember that taking that next step could be the best thing you ever do.

Still exploring your options? Take a read through some pieces exploring some of the best things for students to see and do in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Aberdeen.