A poll for the Sutton Trust showed that many students would have applied to different universities had they known their real grades
Two out of three people starting university this year believe university admissions decisions should be made once students have their results, the THE reports.
The poll of 502 students for the Sutton Trust found that one in four would have applied to different universities had they known their final grades.
Over half of students who applied to a university with high entry requirements said their teachers had under-estimated their actual grades.
The research also highlighted a class divide in exam result predictions, with those from working class backgrounds less likely to have applied to the same universities had they known their final grades.
The Sutton Trust said there needed to be a move to a post qualifications admissions system.
The study comes after the Office for Students launched a major review of admissions, which has been paused because of the pandemic.
One of the options being explored is whether the admissions process should take place after pupils know their A-level grades.
Jo Grady, general secretary of the University and College Union told THE: “The current admissions system is not fit for purpose. This report shows that students are receiving university offers according to inaccurately predicted results, with students from more affluent backgrounds more likely to gain a place at their preferred university than their less-affluent peers.
“Allowing students to apply after they receive their results will help level the playing field, remove the problems associated with unconditional offers and end the chaotic clearing scramble.”