Clearing is the part of the UCAS application process that helps students find a university place if they are still looking for one. Students who didn’t get the grades they expected, who have changed their mind, or who just decided to apply later in the year can all use Clearing.
(Updated for 2026 Clearing)
If you have your results you can apply online for a place through Clearing.
Apply now
Book a Clearing callback, or if you need to speak to us, call now on 01273 644000.
Our call centre is currently closed – check our opening hours below or book a Clearing callback.
A little preparation can make a big difference. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get ready.
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Here are the basic things to get ready before you make your Clearing call:
Course details: Exact course titles and UCAS codes
Your documents: Exam results, transcripts, UCAS ID and login
Your questions: Write down everything you want to ask
Your notes: Key bullet points to guide you on the call
The Clearing team are there to help you. Here's what to expect on the call:
You’ll speak to an Admissions Tutor or Clearing Adviser.
If you meet the criteria, you may receive a verbal offer—you'll be emailed confirmation and acceptance steps.
Some courses require you to have an interview. We’ll explain how to prepare and schedule it. You can find out tips how to prepare for a Clearing interview from the team.
Here are some sample questions you might ask and a basic script you could use to help you focus the call.
Sample script:
“Hi, I’m [Your Name], UCAS ID [xxxxxxx]. My grades are [e.g. A AB], and I’m interested in [Course Name, UCAS code]. Is that course still available?”
Example questions:
Course availability and entry
“Could you confirm the entry requirements for Clearing applicants?”
“What related courses or joint-honours options do you offer?”
“Are there any foundation or preparatory modules available if I’m just below standard entry grades?”
Offer process and deadlines
“How and when will I receive my offer confirmation?”
“If I get a verbal offer today, what are the next steps and deadlines to accept?”
“Can I defer my place once I’ve accepted, and what is the deferral policy?”
Student support and experience
“What support services do you offer first-year Clearing students?”
“Is academic mentoring or peer support available for new students?”
“Do you run any Clearing-specific welcome events or orientation sessions?”
Accommodation and campus life
“Are university halls still available for Clearing applicants, and how do I apply?”
“What is the average cost of on-campus accommodation, and are any bursaries available?”
“Can you tell me about local private-sector housing options and your advice on securing them?”
Fees and funding
“What tuition fees will I pay as a Clearing applicant, and are there any discounts or scholarships?”
“Do you offer any Clearing-only bursaries, hardship funds, or payment-plan options?”
Practicalities and timing
“When does teaching begin for Clearing students—will I miss any key lectures?”
“Is registration automated once I accept, or do I need to complete any forms separately?”
Campus facilities and extracurriculars
“What sports, societies or student-union activities can I join from day one?”
“Are library and IT services fully accessible to Clearing intake students?”
The Clearing call isn't anything to be worried about but it will help to prepare, so stick with your plan and be yourself. Here's a couple of basic things that might help you on the day:
Clearing can connect you with university courses with places available. It gives you the opportunity to find a course if you don’t already have an offer or want to change your plans.
You can apply through Clearing if you don’t hold any offers, didn’t meet your conditions, or decide to apply after the main UCAS deadline. You can also use Clearing if you've changed your mind, and don't want to accept any of the offers you're holding.
Universities consider your qualifications, but at 童颜视频 we’ll also look at your experiences, motivation, and potential when making decisions.
Clearing opens in early July and runs until October, although many courses will fill earlier than this.
See key dates for results day and Clearing
Course availability changes throughout Clearing depending on demand. You can search for available courses and contact universities to check options.
Clearing is open to a wide range of students, including those who:
apply after the UCAS deadline
don’t receive any offers
don’t meet their offer conditions
change their mind about their course or university
Depending on your circumstances there may be financial support if you are applying through Clearing.
If you already have your results, you can apply from early July. If you’re waiting for results, you’ll need to wait until they are released.
One of the most popular questions about university Clearing...
You can speak to multiple universities and receive offers, but you can only accept one Clearing choice.
Referred means your application has been passed to a university for consideration. You should receive further information from them shortly.
In some cases, you may be able to transfer through Clearing. You should contact the university to discuss your options.
It’s possible to find a course through Clearing with lower grades: your experience, other achievements and personal circumstances can also provide evidence of your ability to succeed on your chosen course
No you don't need a new personal statement for Clearing - unless you've changed your mind on which course or subject you want to study.
Your original statement will have all the details in there. However, one of the useful university Clearing tips you should take away is to update the university on any work experience or qualifications you've had since you completed your initial personal statement.
It’s also a good idea to have a short explanation prepared in case you’re asked why you’re interested in the course, especially if:
You didn’t apply earlier in the year
You’ve changed your course or subject
You’re applying based on new or unexpected results
Some universities may ask for this during a call or via a short form. But you won’t need to upload a full statement on UCAS during Clearing.
Access course students apply through Clearing in the same way once Clearing opens in July – you may receive a verbal offer straight away if you have your results.
Many Access students will get their results in July. Access course students are required to submit their results to their firm choice university. If you don't have a confirmed place or want to explore Clearing places with us we'll have an online Clearing application form in addition to our telephone hotline.
Once you have decided that you would like to accept an offer of a place through Clearing you will need to confirm your acceptance – either through UCAS or by sending a confirmation of clearing application form.
Clearing allows you to search for available courses, contact universities, and secure an offer. Once you have an offer, you can add your Clearing choice in UCAS.
Find out exactly how to apply through Clearing.
Once you’ve received an offer, you’ll need to confirm your place.
Find out how to accept your Clearing offer.