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A level results: Is it a big day for your older siblings?

Young adults opening their results next to two girls hugging. in the top right is a newsround graphic encouraging people to 'join in' with the conversation. Image source, Getty Images / BBC
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Across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, many older brothers, sisters and cousins are opening important exam results today.

Thursday 13 August is results day for A-levels, AS-levels and other qualifications, such as BTec results and T Levels in England.

These are the qualifications usually taken by students aged about 16 to 18, after GCSEs.

In Scotland, students received grades for their National 5, Highers and Advanced Highers exams last week.

A-levels are subjects such as maths and english, but also political studies, law and media. BTECs are more work-related courses, often linked to areas like business, health, sport or technology.

T Levels are a newer qualification in England that mix classroom learning with time spent in a real workplace.

For lots of families, results day can be exciting and also nerve-wracking.

There are lots of different things to think about when deciding what to do next, but the grades can help to make that decision.

Some students will want to go to university.

Around 41% of UK 18-year-olds had applied to university by the end of June this year, with a record number now securing a place at their first choice uni.

Other young adults may choose to start an apprenticeship, which means learning while doing a paid job.

While some may choose college, training, work, or take more time to decide with a gap year.

Let us know in the comments if your family members are receiving their results today.