A-level and T-level Results: 2024 marks changes across UK

Students across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland are receiving their A-level, T-level, and other Level 3 results today 

In England, the proportion of top grades (A* and A) has seen a slight increase, rising to 27.6% from last year’s 26.5%. This upward trend is the first since 2021, indicating a recovery towards pre-pandemic levels after fluctuations caused by the cancellation of exams.

Similarly, Northern Ireland experienced a slight rise to 30.3%, down from 37.5% in the previous cycle. In Wales, however, there was a decrease from 34% to 29.9%, showing regional variations in this year’s outcomes, The BBC reported.

Introduction of T-levels

Among the results are the T-Levels. T-levels, vocational qualifications introduced in 2020, saw approximately 7,000 students receive results today. These qualifications focus on practical subjects and contribute to UCAS points, providing alternative pathways for students keen on non-traditional academic routes.

Impact of grading adjustments

The have been efforts to normalise grading post-pandemic, across all three nations, the percentage of top graders remains higher than in 2019. This shows the resilience and adaptability of students and educators.

The adjustments in grading are part of broader efforts to maintain academic standards while accommodating the unique challenges posed by the past few years.

University acceptances

82% of students secured places at their first-choice universities, reflecting a 3% increase from previous years.

Notably, a record number of disadvantaged students have gained university places this year, with 27,600 18-year-olds from underprivileged backgrounds securing spots, a 7% increase from last year.

Computing science results

There has been a significant rise in the number of female students taking A-level computing, with a remarkable 28.6% increase since last year. This growth continues a trend that has seen the number of female Computing students more than double since 2019, rising from 1,475 to 3,556.

However, despite this progress, female students still only make up 17.5% of the total Computing cohort, highlighting the gender imbalance that persists in the subject. Encouragingly, female Computing students are excelling in their studies, with 33.3% of them achieving A*-A grades, compared to 29.0% of male students.

The popularity of Computing as an A-Level continues to surge, with a 29.8% increase in entries over the past two years, bringing the total to 20,370 students in 2024.

This growth can be partly attributed to the phasing out of ICT A-Levels, yet even with that factor considered, Computing saw a 6% rise from last year alone. This reflects a broader trend of increasing interest in STEM subjects, with overall entries up by 7%.

Aisling MacNamara, Director of Learning, Enablement & Inclusion at LearnUpon: “With technology moving at such a fast pace, businesses still need to focus on supplementing these skills gained in school with the right training. It’s critical to ensure that younger workers are given effective onboarding programs that will bring them up to speed quickly so they are immediately able to add value, as well as boost rates of retention.”

However, women still remain underrepresented in STEM, making up just 43.2% of the total cohort. Meanwhile, Maths remains the most popular A-Level subject, with 107,427 students in 2024, though the gender gap remains, as only 37.2% of these students are female.

Looking ahead

As students receive their results and make decisions about their next steps, whether its entering university, pursuing alternative qualifications, or exploring career options, clearing and deferment processes through UCAS are available to support their choices.

These mechanisms provide flexibility, ensuring that students can make informed decisions based on their achievements and aspirations.

Results day 2024

Today’s results reflect not only academic accomplishments but also the resilience and determination shown by students during challenging times. The slight shifts in grading and the introduction of T-levels highlight the evolving landscape of education in the UK, where both traditional and vocational pathways contribute to a diverse educational ecosystem.

For those still navigating their options or seeking further information, resources and guidance are available through UCAS and educational institutions, ensuring that every student’s journey is supported and celebrated.