THE wait is finally over for nervous students as they pick up their all-important exam results today.

Thousands of teenagers at sixth forms and colleges across Suffolk and Essex will discover their A-level grades.

Some will be heading off to university in September while others will be taking a gap before continuing their studies or heading to work.

But some students will find themselves without the grades they need to secure their university places.

Advisors at University Campus Suffolk (UCS), which has bases on Ipswich Waterfront, in Bury St Edmunds, Great Yarmouth, Lowestoft, Otley and at Suffolk New College, will be manning the phones today to help students through the process.

Sarah Tattersall, head of student recruitment at UCS, said their staff were aware that some potential students may worry about the cost of higher education, but encouraged them to get in touch.

She said: “We have places available on a wide range of programmes and our advisors are available to talk to those considering higher education through their options.

“We understand that many potential students may worry about the cost of higher education but most students will not have to pay a penny upfront for the cost of their course and some will be eligible for additional support in the form of grants and bursaries that don’t have to be paid back.” Staff at UCAS will be ready to help applicants through the confirmation and clearing process throughout the day.

Students will be able to log in to the UCAS website from 8am to see if they have been accepted on their chosen courses or are eligible for clearing.

Mary Curnack Cook, UCAS chief executive, said: “The majority of applicants with conditional offers will have their place confirmed on results day. But if you are at all worried it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the clearing process now so you are ready to act quickly.”

Clearing helps people without a university or college place to find suitable vacancies on higher education courses.

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