A Guardian investigation has revealed the extent of disappointment that might be felt come A-level results day next week.

Prospective university students who do not get their required grades are being advised to think strategically, take a gap year and reapply next year.

Students who applied for university this year have done so at a time of unprecedented demand for places. The recession has made competition fiercer than ever before and it is now clear that many universities are expecting to be unable to offer any places through clearing. Universities such as Warwick, LSE and Nottingham may even have to turn away the new top grade of A* students.

In light of this the National Union of Students and many headteachers are advising that students take a gap year and make the most of their time out, while preparing to reapply the following year. The campaigning group Parents Aloud recommended that students ‘do something positive like volunteering’ in the meantime. This kind of experience may even improve their chances of success next time around.

For more information on gap year options, visit our volunteer work page.