After weeks of waiting and anticipation, results day will soon arrive. If you're feeling stressed, here's how to calm your nerves.
Updated: 11 Jun 2026
It’s understandable to feel nervous or stressed while waiting for your results, whether you’re receiving A-levels, T Levels, Scottish Highers or other results.
These practical tips can help you manage your worries before and on results day.
It's vitally important not to lose yourself in a cycle of stress and panic, something students understandably will go through. Take a moment, just five minutes every day to sit and do nothing or do something you really love to ease your mind. Just because results day is coming up doesn’t mean it’s all you have to think about. Eat properly, keep up a social routine, and don’t lock yourself away.
NEXT: Read more advice on wellbeing.
Losing sleep over your exam results is quite common and really impacts your daily routine whether you notice it or not. Rather than indulging in late-night Netflix binges, focus on your sleep and try to get a good night’s rest. Pillow sprays and natural aromas might help you wind down.Take a break from screens before you go to bed and try to do a relaxing activity like some light yoga or reading to get you ready for sleep.
It’s easy to constantly check your phone for updates or emails that might come through about results day, but you'll likely end up relentlessly staring at your phone in anticipation and feeling anxious whenever a notification comes through. Try to do other things that don’t involve technology, like reading a book, spending time with your family or simply going out. Switching off your phone can switch off your mind too.
Results day itself can play on your mind, not just the idea of collecting results that impact your future. Find out when and how you’ll receive your results and plan what you need to do that morning. It’s one less thing to worry about and gives you a bit of control too.
Some people will get the results they want, others won’t. Having a backup plan, even if you do not use it. gives you options and a greater sense of control. It’s worth researching possible Clearing courses in case you don’t get the grades required for your offers. Check your UCAS application first, as a university may still confirm your place even if you narrowly miss the conditions.
Consider having someone supportive with you or available to talk when you receive your results. This could be a friend, family member, teacher or adviser who can help you think through what to do next.
It's okay to feel stressed or worried, and everyone around you understands this. Talking through your concerns with someone you trust may help you feel less overwhelmed. They might help you come up with some positive next steps too.
Results day doesn’t have to be the only thing on your mind. Indulge in your passions, hang out with your mates, chill out with your pets. Doing something you enjoy can give you a helpful break from worrying.
When all's said and done, your results are already determined, and this is pretty much set in stone. It's out of your control, and that's okay because some things always are. You’ve done what you can, so try to focus on the steps you can take once you receive your results.
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