A Level results day 2018 guide: What is UCAS track and UCAS clearing? Everything you need to know

Just when you thought you could forget about exams for the summer, A-Level results day is just around the corner.

Young people across the country are waiting to open that all-important envelope which will determine whether they got into their chosen university.

To avoid tears and tantrums on the big day, here's everything you need to know, including what to do if you don't get the results you'd hoped for.

When is it?

A-Level results are released on Thursday 16 August.

You can collect them from your school on the day, but remember to check timings with your teachers.

If you are not able to collect them in person, you can request to have them sent by post or nominate a friend or family member to pick them up on your behalf. You'll need to confirm this with your school, though.

When will I find out if I got into my chosen university?

UCAS Track will update itself at 8am on results day, so you'll more than likely find out if you got a university place before you get your A-Level results.

If your place is confirmed, UCAS will send you your AS12 letter via email which will explain your next steps.

What is UCAS Track?

UCAS track is an online system through which students submit their university or college applications.

It then allows you to follow the progress of your application and will let you know on the morning of results day whether you got into your chosen institution.

What happens if I get better grades than I expected?

Then great! If you want to try your luck to get into a better university, you can go through UCAS' adjustment process.

You'll need to call up any universities you're thinking of swapping to, let them know about your circumstance and see if they have any places available.

What happens if I don't get a university place?

If you don't get a place for your firm university choice, check the status of your insurance university application. If you accept a place at your insurance university, you'll need to update your student loan details under 'change of circumstance.'

If neither your firm or insurance is successful, you'll be entered into clearing.

What is clearing and do I have to do it?

Clearing is the process by which spaces left at other universities are filled by students who do not hold an offer of another chance to find a university place - and no, you don't have to do it.

If you're successful through clearing, you'll simply have a place a different university. If are not successful or don't want to go through clearing, you have some options:

• retake your A-Levels and apply again next year

• get a job, take a college course or do a traineeship or apprenticeship - remember, university isn't the be all and end all.