Clearing is a UCAS process that helps universities fill any remaining course places after A-level results are released. It’s also an opportunity for you to find and apply for a university course if you don’t already have a place. Clearing opens on 5 July 2025, but most students use it from 14 August 2025 (results day). The deadline to accept a place through Clearing is 20 October 2025.
Who Can Use Clearing?
Clearing is open to anyone who:
· Didn’t receive or accept any offers
· Didn’t meet the conditions of their offers
· Hasn’t applied to university yet
· Wants to change course or university after getting their results
You can also use Clearing if you got better grades than expected and want to apply for a different university. Even top universities offer places through Clearing—over 70,000 students were accepted this way last year. It’s also your chance to speak directly with university admissions teams.
How to Prepare
From 5 July, universities begin listing available courses on UCAS, and these lists update regularly until mid-September.
To prepare:
· Research courses and universities in advance
· Keep your UCAS number, Clearing number, and exam results handy
· Have a pen and paper ready during phone calls
· Re-read your personal statement
· Prepare a short explanation about why you’re interested in the course
· Make a back-up list of courses with lower entry requirements
Using Clearing on Results Day
On 14 August, check your results early and log into UCAS Track. If you’re eligible for Clearing, it will show your Clearing number.
Steps to follow:
1. Contact universities directly via their Clearing phone lines
2. Be ready to talk about your grades and interest in the course
3. Some may ask you to do a short phone interview
4. Ask about accommodation options for Clearing students
5. If you’re offered a place, you’ll usually have 24 hours to accept or decline
Once you’re happy with an offer, add it on UCAS Track only after you’ve been given a verbal offer. You can call as many universities as you like, but you can only add one Clearing choice at a time on Track.
Making the Right Decision
Take your time. Don’t accept the first offer unless it feels right.
Think about:
· The course content
· The university location and facilities
· Whether you can picture yourself studying there
Some universities offer open days for Clearing students—attend if you can.
What Happens After You Accept an Offer?
Once you accept a place:
· Start looking for accommodation
· Ask the university for help if you need housing advice
· Join student housing or Freshers’ Facebook groups—some students may offer spare leases
Final Tips
Results day can be stressful, especially if things don’t go as planned. But Clearing gives you a second chance to find a great course. Stay calm, be prepared, and explore all your options. Many students go on to thrive at universities they found through Clearing.
Need Help?
We have years of experience helping students navigate Clearing. Please contact us for expert advice and support.
