You can go through clearing if you meet the following criteria:
Here are the steps to navigate the Clearing process:
On A-level results day, you will find out if you are eligible for Clearing.
If you have been offered a place at university, your results will be sent directly to your university admissions to check if they meet the entry requirements. If your grades fall short of the required marks, you will be placed into Clearing.
If you have changed your mind about the course place you were offered, then you will need to log into the UCAS Hub and reject the accepted place this will place you back into the clearing.
If you did not receive any initial offers or apply before the 30th of June, then you will now be placed into Clearing for you to choose from the courses places still available.
It is wise to log into your UCSS Hub a few days before results day to ensure that your login details are correct and that you have no access issues. If you are having issues logging in, then it is best to highlight this as early as possible; results day is a busy day for all involved, and wait times will be increased at the UCAS helpdesk, so it is best to sort it out ahead of time.
Once you log in to your UCAS Hub account you will be told if you are in Clearing, your status will say “You are in Clearing” or “Clearing has started.”
Utilise the UCAS Search Tool to find courses that have available places. This tool is updated regularly with courses that still have vacancies. You can also make use of the new Clearing Plus, which will match you with available courses based on your previous choices and current grades.
Always research the courses and universities carefully, considering factors such as course content, location, and entry requirements. Don’t feel rushed. You won’t be able to make a selection till 3 pm on results day at the earliest, and even then, you should take your time to ensure that you have researched all options thoroughly. Clearing doesn’t close until 21st October and although places can fill up fast, it won’t hurt to take your time. Places can also be released at any time during the clearing period.
Whether you choose to phone, use an online chat or email the university, it is best to prepare some information for your correspondence. You should have your UCAS Personal ID, Clearing number (visible in UCAS Hub), A-level results, and any questions you have about the course or the university ready and preferably written down. Have a pad and pen or a device to hand so that you can make notes about the conversation and any important information.
When calling universities, do so directly via their Clearing hotlines. Be prepared to discuss your interest in the course and why you would be a good fit. Make sure to ask any questions you have about the course or university.
You may also be able to use an online chat function on the university website to discuss options with someone on the admissions team. If this is the case, make sure to save the transcript from this chat for future reference, especially if you are contacting more than one institution. Results day is a high-stress day, and it is easy to miss information or forget to ask important questions.
Some universities may make you a verbal offer over the phone. Take note of any offers you receive. It is best to ask for this to be confirmed in writing at the earliest convenience.
If you receive multiple offers, take time to compare them. Consider factors such as course content, university reputation, location, and future career opportunities. Just because you are in clearing does not mean you must rush into a decision immediately. This decision will affect the next three to four years of your life at least and should not be taken lightly.
If you are unsure of your options or the best choices for you, talk to teachers, career advisors, or family members if you need help deciding. They have your best interest at heart and can often act as sounding boards for how you are feeling and give you another perspective. Look at league tables and check out what students say about your chosen universities and courses. There are plenty of blogs and online resources which can assist with making decisions or speaking to people who can assist if you do not have anyone to hand who can advise you.
Once you’ve decided on a course, go to your UCAS Hub and select the “Add Clearing choice” button.
Enter Course Details by inputting the details of the course you wish to accept into the clearing system. Only add a Clearing choice if you have received a verbal offer from the university.
The university will confirm your place via your UCAS Hub. Be patient, though, as this may not be an instant decision. Thousands of students are all going through clearing at the same time, and it may take universities a few days to process all applications.
Once confirmed, your place is secured.
This is the fun part. You now get to prepare.
Finding accommodation, preparing for enrolment and freshers week, getting your reading and equipment lists and deciding which extracurricular clubs you’d like to check out and potentially join. University life is just around the corner.
By following these steps, you can navigate the Clearing process effectively and secure a place at a university that fits your academic goals.
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