Do universities give conditional offers if I apply with predicted grades, and what happens if my final marks are lower than predicted?
Yes, many universities, especially in the UK, Australia, and Canada, do offer conditional offers based on predicted grades, particularly for undergraduate programs. This means that the university will give you a provisional admission, provided you achieve the grades you are predicted to get in your final exams. Conditional offers are common when students apply before receiving their final results, such as right after Class 12 or during the final year of their bachelor’s.
If your final grades meet or exceed the predicted grades, the conditional offer is confirmed and you can proceed with your visa and enrollment process. However, if your final grades fall short of the predicted grades, the university may reassess your application. Some universities may still accept you if the shortfall is minor, especially if other parts of your application (SOP, LORs, test scores) are strong, while others may withdraw the offer. In such cases, you might have the option to appeal or request consideration for a lower-ranked course or defer your admission to the next intake.
It’s always a good idea to communicate with the admissions office in advance to understand their specific policies regarding predicted grades and possible shortfalls. This way, you are aware of your options and can plan accordingly.
