Sixth formers across the country collecting their A-level results in the wake of major exam reforms, with around one in four entries expected to be awarded the highest grades.
Students who are still seeking university places are likely to face a wealth of choice as institutions scramble to attract good candidates on to their degree courses.
University leaders suggested that there could be more people who are using Clearing this year to apply to university for the first time.
A Press Association snapshot survey suggests that the day before results were due to be released, more than 26,000 courses were available in clearing for students in England only.
More than half a million students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland are receiving A-level results today.
Our photographer Simon Warburton was out and about at Chester schools this morning to capture students' excitement as they celebrated their results.
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