Exam results day can be a daunting prospect, but with some planning you can be prepared for any outcome. To make sure you’re ready for tomorrow, we spoke to careers advisors at the National Careers Service to find out what you need to do ahead of the big day.

1. Have a plan

Choose where and with whom you will open your results. Online or at school? With friends or family? Decide on a game plan for the day and stick to it. Just because everyone else is opening their results at school, it doesn’t mean you have to. Put yourself first and do what works for you.

2. Know career paths aren’t a ‘one-size-fits-all’

Whether you think you want to work in advertising, or for a big car manufacturer, look up your dream job and understand all the different ways you could get there. Ahead of getting your results, know all your options.

3. Understand university isn’t the only route

Nowadays apprenticeships can provide you with the training required to become a lawyer or an engineer, and you can gain a degree. So don’t assume that university is the best and only path for you. There are currently thousands of apprenticeship vacancies listed online.

4. Recognize how Clearing works

If you’re awaiting A-level results and planning to go to university, it’s important that you understand the Clearing process – even if you’re feeling confident you’ll get the results you want. 64,300 students obtained places through Clearing last summer in a wide range of subjects, so make sure you’re informed and prepared for Clearing just in case.

5. Seek advice from the experts

The best place to go for this advice is the Exam Results Helpline – the official service set up especially for those who have received their results and want to discuss their options. The Helpline’s careers advisers will help you to develop a plan. The Helpline is a free service and will be open 8am-10pm seven days a week. It can be reached on 0800 100 900.

6. Don’t panic

Whether or not you get the results you expect, everything will work out in the long run. The best thing you can do is stay calm and focus your on figuring out your next steps. Remember, every year millions of students get through exam week and are sitting happily in successful jobs today.

Youth Connections Hertfordshire are also offering assistance to students receiving their results tomorrow and next week. Their personal advisors are available to discuss further education options and career prospects at access points across the county. Find your nearest access point here: http://www.ychertfordshire.org/

A range of useful resources focused towards helping you plan your future can be found on the YC Hertfordshire website: http://www.ychertfordshire.org/