Q&A: What if my A-level results are not what I hoped for?

A-level results day doesn't make everyone smile

While tens of thousands of students in England and Wales and Northern Ireland will be celebrating on A-level results day, others will be facing difficult decisions. Teenagers in Scotland received the results of their Standard Grades and Highers earlier this month.

The BBC News website offers a few tips for those who do not get the grades they need to take up a place at their preferred university.

What should I do on A-level results day?

What should I do if I do not get the grades I need?

How do I get a university place through Clearing?

How do I find out what courses are available and choose the best one for me?

How do I give myself the best chance of getting a place through Clearing?

How do I challenge my results?

What if I get better grades than expected?

Would it be better to wait until next year and try again?

Could I do something else altogether?

Where can I go for advice?

I am Scottish and did not do well in my Highers. What can I do?