CLEARING HUB

Clearing is the part of a university’s admissions process where unfilled places are made available to new and existing applicants – it’s how thousands of students find their university place every year. Clearing isn’t just for people who miss their grades on results day. It’s an opportunity to reconsider your original choices, start a brand new application or secure a last minute place on a different course.

Clearing opens on Thursday 2nd July and stays open until 19th October, so it runs for far longer than most people think. There’s a common myth that Clearing only starts on A-level results day but in reality that’s just when most people are looking for places in Clearing. If you already have your results, you can contact universities and apply immediately. Equally if you don’t want to rush into a decision you have up until October to weigh up your options. Just be aware that universities may start to close their courses once they are filled.

Clearing is for anyone who doesn’t hold a confirmed university offer. Traditionally, it’s been considered a ‘second chance’ if you narrowly miss the conditions of your firm or insurance choice. However, there are many other reasons why you might want to use Clearing. For example, you’re late applying to university, you didn’t receive or accept any previous offers or your plans have changed since you first applied. Clearing is not the ‘last resort’ it’s sometimes made out to be. It can be a strategic and flexible route into the university of your choice.

If you are looking for courses with places available in Clearing, we would recommend you use the UCAS Clearing Search Tool or check university websites. These are the most reliable sources, because universities update their availability throughout the summer. AI tools such as ChatGPT and Gemini can be helpful but make sure to double check facts and verify the information they give you before making any decisions.

Applying through Clearing is a simple process. Once you’ve found a course with places available, the first thing you should do is contact the university directly. Most universities have a helpline that you can contact and speak to an adviser. They will ask you a series of questions and check you meet the entry requirements for the course. If you do, they will confirm that you are eligible and give you a verbal offer over the phone. You can collect as many verbal offers as you want, however you can only add one Clearing choice on your UCAS Hub, so make sure you’re confident before you commit. If you have a firm or insurance offer already and are looking to swap, you would need to decline these offers before adding your Clearing choice.