What Are Predicted Grades and Why They Matter
For many students applying to UK universities, predicted grades are a key part of the application process. But what exactly are predicted grades, and why do they hold such significance when applying to higher education institutions in the UK? This article will explain what predicted grades are, how they are determined, and why they are so important for prospective students.
What Are Predicted Grades?
Predicted grades are the grades that teachers or school staff estimate a student is likely to achieve in their final exams, such as A-levels, International Baccalaureate (IB), or other pre-university qualifications. These grades are usually submitted as part of a student’s university application, helping admissions officers understand a student’s academic potential before their final exam results are available.
The UK has a pre-results admissions process, which means that students apply to university before they finish school and before they get their final results. For UK university applicants, predicted grades are typically included on the UCAS application, which is submitted months before students sit their final exams. Since universities won’t know the final results at the time of application, they use predicted grades as a benchmark for offering conditional places to applicants.
How Are Predicted Grades Determined?
Teachers use a variety of factors to predict a student’s final grades, including:
- Past Performance: A student’s performance in previous exams, such as mock A-levels, IB tests, or coursework, plays a major role in predicting grades.
- Work Ethic: A student’s attitude towards their studies, participation in class, and ability to meet deadlines can influence the predicted grades.
- Potential for Improvement: Teachers also consider how much a student has improved throughout the course and whether they are likely to continue progressing in the lead-up to their final exams.
It’s important for students to maintain consistent performance in their coursework and assessments to ensure accurate and realistic predicted grades, as universities rely on this information when making offers.
Why Predicted Grades Matter
- University Offers Are Based on Predicted Grades
In the UK, most universities make conditional offers based on predicted grades. A conditional offer means that a student will be offered a place at the university provided they achieve certain grades in their final exams. For example, a student might receive an offer stating they need to achieve AAB in their A-levels. If their predicted grades meet or exceed this threshold, they are more likely to receive an offer.
- Influencing University Choices
Predicted grades play a crucial role in determining which universities a student can apply to. Most UK universities publish the typical entry requirements for each course, and students are encouraged to apply to universities where their predicted grades match or exceed the course requirements. While students can apply to a range of institutions, including some “aspirational” choices, having realistic predicted grades helps students focus on universities where they have the best chance of being accepted.
- Planning and Preparation
Predicted grades provide a benchmark for students to set realistic goals and prepare for their final exams. They give students insight into their current academic profile and highlight areas where they may need to improve before taking their final exams. Knowing their predicted grades can help students plan revision schedules and identify subjects that require extra attention.
The Impact of Over- and Under-Predicted Grades
While predicted grades are essential, they are not always 100% accurate. Some students may be over-predicted, which can lead to disappointment if they fail to meet the university’s conditions. Others may be under-predicted, potentially limiting their choices when it comes to applying to more competitive institutions.
If a student’s final grades do not match their predicted grades, they can still explore options like Clearing, which allows students to find alternative university places if they miss their original offer conditions.
Maximising the Value of Predicted Grades
For students, making the most of their predicted grades means working closely with their teachers, maintaining strong academic performance, and being proactive in identifying areas for improvement. Predicted grades are more than just a formality in the application process—they are a vital tool for students, universities, and admissions officers to make informed decisions about a student’s future.
At UK Study Options, we guide students and families through the complexities of the UK university application process, offering personalised advice on how to strengthen applications and maximise the chances of securing a place at a top institution. From understanding fee status to navigating predicted grades, our services ensure that students are fully prepared to make the most of their university experience.
