A-level results day: Didn't get the results you wanted? Don't panic!

There are plenty of options available, from taking a year out and re-taking exams to looking at alternatives including apprenticeships.

For most, however, clearing will be the way forward.

Useful numbers for clearing:

Ucas helpline: 0808 100800 or visit ucas.com

Wolverhampton University clearing hotline: 01902 323505

Harper Adams University: 01952 815000

Chester University: 01244 511000

Manchester Metropolitan University: 0161 247 3000

Manchester University: 0161 275 2077

Liverpool John Moores University: 0500 564 565

Liverpool University: 0151 794 6800

Aberystwyth University: 0800 1214080

Birmingham University: 0121 4143344

Birmingham City University: 0121 331 6777

Aston University: 0121 204 4444

Keele University: 01782 733000

Anyone who hasn't already applied through Ucas this year will need to register and make an application.

If you applied earlier in the year and find yourself without an offer, your Ucas Track status will indicate that you are eligible for clearing. Once in clearing, you need to identify what kind of course you'd like to study and the universities that you're interested in. Check the Ucas course search tool to see what courses are available and check universities' own websites for information about course content.

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Next you need to contact the relevant university or college directly. Most will have a dedicated clearing phone number or 'clearing hotline' you can ring to discuss vacancies and your eligibility. Make sure you have your personal Ucas ID and clearing number.

The university may treat the call as a mini-interview so be prepared.