Updated on Feb 20, 2020

If you’re reading this, you probably just got your ‘A’ Level examination results. Chances are, you’re asking yourself: “What’s next?”

You could be applying to a university, taking a gap year or learning a new skill.

Whatever it is, start with these basic questions first: Where do you want to be in the next five years? What do you need to do to get there?

Here is a non-exhaustive list of things you can do after getting your ‘A’ Level results.

1. Apply for universities 

After the ‘A’ Levels, most students will be thinking about which university to go to. Whether your results are above or below your expectations, always keep an open mind and pick your university and courses wisely.

After all, you will be spending three to four years in your course of study.

Local universities

Read up on admission requirements from the various local universities – NUS, NTU, SMU, SIT, SUTD and SUSS – to see which courses you’re eligible for. Or check out the upcoming open houses to find out more about the different courses while exploring your options.

Private universities

If your grades don’t make the cut for local universities, it’s not the end of the world. You can still get into your desired course in private universities without having to compete with the bell curve.

Contrary to popular belief, some courses in private universities are more affordable than those offered in local universities.

For example, average tuition fees for a full-time degree in Kaplan start from $20,000. This is cheaper than the average tuition fees in local universities, which may start from $27,000.

Overseas universities

If your dream course is unavailable in Singapore and you are brave enough to take the plunge, going to an overseas university could offer up a chance to discover yourself. You get to experience a foreign culture and a different living environment, which can be both exciting and terrifying at the same time.

But if you’re still clueless about which university to apply to, maybe our guide to university applications can help.

2. Retake your ‘A’ Levels 

Some might feel that a second chance is all they need to achieve their desired results, so grab that chance if you feel the same.

You can retake your ‘A’ Levels as a private candidate, or retake them in your junior college (JC). However, you will have to check with your own JC about the criteria to re-apply.

3. Consider the polytechnic route 

If you prefer not to go through the torturous process of retaking your ‘A’ Levels, going to a polytechnic might be a more sensible choice, especially if you already know what you want to do in the future.

The best part? In Feb 2019, the Ministry of Education announced that ‘A’ Level graduates planning to enrol in a polytechnic from Academic Year (AY) 2019 onwards can be exempted from the first semester of their studies.

4. Get busy working

Have fun with part-time jobs you’ve never tried before, or take up an internship. You might gain valuable work experience and a chance to discover possible career routes for yourself.

You can find plenty of part-time jobs and internship opportunities on job portals like FastJobs, Glints and Indeed.

5. Take a gap year 

If time permits, take a year off from studying and embark on a journey of self-discovery. Most students choose to pick up a new skill, such as learning how to cook, drive, or play a musical instrument.

No matter what path you choose, remember to take some time to clear your mind before making your next move. All the best!