A‑Level Results Day lands on 14 August 2025
Trends in A-Level Performance
A‑Level entries have dipped slightly, from 825,355 in summer 2024 to 821,875 in summer 2025—a 0.4% decrease.
Results in England are returning close to pre‑pandemic levels, signalling a stabilisation after years of disruption.
In 2024, 27.8% of A‑Level entries received top grades (A/A*), up from 27.2% in 2023. Experts suggest this elevated level may be becoming a “new normal”.
What This Means for Your Child
If your child hit their target grades, congratulations—they’re in a strong position for university or apprenticeship offers. If not:
UCAS Clearing
Clearing is open now and runs until 20 October 2025, and remains a critical lifeline for students who narrowly missed their offers, changed their minds, or applied late.
In 2024, over 38,000 UK students secured university places through Clearing.
Broader Context — Equity & Access
A persistent issue: students from white working-class backgrounds eligible for free school meals fare worse—only 18.6% achieved a grade 5 or above in English & Maths GCSEs, compared to a national average of 45.9%.
Gaps in support exist: in 2023-24, 42% of students in private schools received exam time extensions, versus 26% in state schools—the widest gap since 2018-19.
On average, A‑Level students achieved a point score of 35.29, roughly equivalent to a B-grade. Performance varies significantly by ethnicity—e.g., Chinese students scored 39.83 on average, while Black Caribbean students averaged 28.91 (grade C).
What Parents Should Do Now
Check results promptly at 9:30 am on 14 August.
Understand Clearing: research courses in advance, have a plan, and use UCAS tools like Clearing Plus.
Talk through next steps: uni, apprenticeships, resits or gap years—all can be valid pathways.
Support equitable opportunities: if your child needs extra help, it’s not uncommon—and National Learning Group specialise in turning resits into success stories.
