Other options

Step 5: Next steps

If you haven't found the place you're looking for, or you've changed your mind about going to university or college this year, there are plenty of options that can help you improve your knowledge and learn new skills or just give you a well-deserved break.

There are more courses available than just full-time higher education courses, so you could consider studying something or somewhere different. We've broken down the options into five career paths - click the links below.


Further study and reapplying

Part-time courses

Part-time courses could be a good option - you could get a part-time job alongside it. We have a part-time course search on this site from July until September - you can search for part-time courses at universities and colleges that recruit for their full-time courses through us. For these courses, you apply direct to where you'd be studying. More about part-time courses and Course Search

Foundation degrees

Foundation degrees are another option - you can study full-time or part-time and might find a similar subject to what you originally wanted to study. Search for full-time courses in Course Search, or use the foundation degree Course Search to see what other study options are on offer.

Get some experience

If you're planning to reapply for higher education it's worth taking part in something that will help you get accepted onto a course. For example, if you're hoping to study medicine, try to get some work experience at a local surgery or hospital. If you would like to study a language, visit the country and practice your skills.

Having some experience to put on your UCAS application will help you get ahead of the competition.

Study in another country

You could consider studying in a different country.


Reapply to university or college

If you'd like to start university or college next year, you'll need to reapply (we can't reuse an application from a previous year). Go to the Apply page to register.

Taking a gap year

Taking a gap year can be a great experience and one which helps you get the skills you need for higher education. Gap years cover loads of options, from travelling abroad to work or volunteer, retaking qualifications, or learning something new that hasn't been an option before.

Whatever you choose, check that you can afford it and get plenty of advice before you decide. There are lots of sites to help you choose your gap year so search for what you're interested in.


Apprenticeships

Apprenticeships are available for lots of different careers. With an Apprenticeship you can earn money while you're learning and gain recognised qualifications.

  • National Apprenticeship Service (NAS) - the National Apprenticeship Service has responsibility for Apprenticeships in the UK. They also have a vacancy search on their website that links apprentices to vacancies.

Finding a job

Whether you're looking for some work experience before going to university or a permanent job, you can get advice from these companies.

  • Directgov - hosts a range of information on finding a job including a job search function, skills and careers advice and information on volunteering.
  • Connexions - provides advice on a range of topics for 13-19 year olds living in England and has a careers database.

Starting a business

If you decide to start your own business, these organisations may be able to help you:

  • Prince's Trust - a UK charity helping young people aged 18-30 start a business; the Prince's Trust provides advice, training courses, development awards and enterprise schemes.
  • Business Link - the official government website for businesses of all sizes. Business Link provides free business advice and support services through online and local advisers.

Need more information?

Get some advice

  • Learndirect - for information and advice about different career paths, courses, qualifications and training for business.
  • Directgov - Directgov's prospectus service can tell you about courses available in your local area.
  • Exam Results Helpline - to speak to someone in person for free, expert information and advice about what to do next, call the Exams Results Helpline on 0808 100 8000. Whether it's questions about specific offers or grades, going to college or university, getting a job, exploring alternative qualifications, finance, moving away from home or taking some time out, expert advisers are on hand to help. Calls are free from a landline and select mobile networks.

Find out what others say

  • Student Stories - this website features students talking honestly about their own university experiences, taking a gap year, finding a job and getting experience for their chosen career.

Whatever you decide, take a look at our online bookstore - we provide useful guides to choosing a career, taking a gap year, and the 'Top Universities Guide', which gives worldwide university rankings. Even if you choose not to go to university, there's a guide there to help. Go to the UCAS bookstore to see for yourself.