Your predicted grade is your key into your dream universities, so it's important to be working hard throughout Year 12 and 13 to be in with the best shot.
As you might already be aware, the UCAS process runs on predicted grades. Universities extend conditional offers based on predicted grades, personal statements and (where applicable) entrance exams and interviews. As the name might suggest, this is conditional on you actually getting those grades at the end of Year 13.
The importance of your predicted grades cannot be overstated. It's what you apply to universities with, after all!
Teachers normally start putting predicted grades and references in over the summer before Year 13 — so you effectively have about a year to make a good impression. Time to start being the teacher's pet.
What are predicted grades?
Predicted grades are the grades your teachers expect you to achieve in your final exams, based on class performance, coursework, and mock exams.
Schools usually submit predicted grades in October for Oxbridge/Medicine/Dentistry/Veterinary applications and by January for most other courses.
Treat every mock like the real thing
Practice under timed conditions, plan your answers carefully, and check out examiner reports so you don't make the same mistakes as previous generations of students. Here's a few other ways you can make sure to do the best you can in your mocks:
Focus on high-impact improvements
It's classic advice for a reason. Focus on your weaknesses, rather than comfortably reworking your strengths, and you'll actually see results. Rather than re-reading notes, actively work on problem areas, like structuring essays better, improving analysis, or memorizing quotes, equations or facts.
Be proactive with feedback
Ask for feedback and act on it. Don't just let it sit in that corner of your desk, really take the time to rewrite paragraphs (or res-solve problems) with the feedback in mind. Then, demonstrate progress in your next piece of work.
Improve your exam technique
Our Avalon students are always told that it's all well and good knowing the content, but it's simply not enough if you can't prove it to an examiner. Learn how to manage time effectively, structure answers clearly, and meet assessment objectives. Even small changes in how you answer questions can push you into a higher grade boundary.
Understand the mark scheme
And on that last note: pore over the mark scheme. Understand what the examiners want from you. Read as many (full mark) example responses as you can, and don't leave it up to guesswork.
Teachers think like examiners, so you should too. Get a copy of the mark scheme, grade your own work harshly, and compare it to top-mark answers. If possible, swap with a friend and grade each other — it forces you to think critically about what gets marks (and what doesn’t).
Show consistent effort
Predicted grades aren’t just about tests — your attitude, participation, and improvement over time are all things your teachers keep in mind when submitting your grade.
Speak up in class
Do all your homework on time and to a high standard
Take your progress seriously; be proactive with feedback from your teacher
Both consciously and subconsciously, your teacher will start thinking of you as an engaged, high-potential student and are more likely to be generous on their predicted grades.
Go beyond the curriculum
Teachers are more likely to predict a higher grade if they see a genuine passion for the subject. Plus, you're hitting two birds with one stone – all of the following would make great additions to your personal statement as 'super-curriculars':
Pick up academic books, journals, or even subject-specific magazines.
Watch lectures, documentaries, and online courses.
Ask thoughtful questions in class and contribute unique perspectives.
Start tackling content early to show you’re proactive and prepared.
The power of negotiation
If you find yourself close to the deadline for submitting predicted grades and you're not happy, don't be afraid to make your case. Teachers are on your side, and they want you to get the best offers you can.
The key is to prove your potential. Gather evidence of recent improvement, highlight strong coursework, even complete extra practice essays to show your potential. Then, book a meeting with your teacher and make your case professionally.
Good luck!
Your predicted grades are your ticket to your dream university.
Every lesson, mock, and assignment is a chance to prove yourself, and small, strategic improvements can make a big difference. Show your teachers that you’re serious, take control of your progress, and don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself if needed.
Here at Avalon Education, we specialize in helping students maximize their potential. If you want to secure the best possible predicted grades and university offers, get in touch — we’ll help you get there.