Q&A: What if my A-level results don't make the grade?

A-level results day can be a difficult one for many teenagers

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

The BBC News website offers some pointers for those who did not get the grades they needed or were hoping for.

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?