How to survive exam results day

How to survive exam results day 

Results day is an incredibly important day for students. It’s natural for them to feel anxious – especially if their results will determine whether they can attend their chosen college or university. 

We all went through our own results day and remember our own emotional reactions to it, so we’ve prepared a few suggestions to help students survive this big day:

Think positive

It’s important to stay optimistic and remember that this is just an exam. The results are determined and it’s too late to change them. What your students need is to distance themselves from negative thoughts, believe in their own abilities and think positive. They have done their best and that is all that matters. Worrying will not change their grades, it will only impact their reaction to them, so the best they can do is stay calm and positive about it.

Have a plan

Having a plan on the day from start to finish will help your pupils to ease a proportion of the stress they feel and relax. It’s one less thing to worry about in the morning and gives them a bit of control too. Knowing the time of results being released will help students to plan other activities around it.

They might also want to arrange a treat for later in the day with their family or friends, regardless of how they did. This could be a meal out, ice creams or a trip to a spa for the afternoon. That way there is something to look forward to whatever happens. 

Get distracted

Results day does not have to be the only thing on your student’s mind that day. Suggest they distract themselves by doing what they normally like to do in their spare time. They can watch a new movie on Netflix, play their favourite video game, go for a long walk with a dog, listen to their favourite music or read an inspiring book. It doesn’t matter what they do as long as it keeps them occupied, relaxed and away from any negative thoughts.

Talk to someone

Results day can be overwhelming and sometimes the best way to deal with this emotion is by talking to others. Opening up to a parent is a good place to start. But if any of your pupils feel uncomfortable talking to someone in their household, they can always speak to other relatives, a friend or even someone from school who can offer emotional support. 

Be open to alternatives

There are situations when disappointing grades reveal other opportunities that hadn’t been considered. But to see these opportunities, pupils must be willing to be open to them. Disappointing grades could be the sign that the chosen degree or A level options were possibly not the best and an alternative option might more beneficial for them.

Good luck to all your students!

“Do the best you can until you know better. Then when you know better, do better.” - Maya Angelou