How to apply through Clearing

Lots of students get a Clearing offer when they call a university on A-level results day so it's useful to prepare in advance. Here are a few questions about A-level results day and Clearing.

• How should I prepare for results day?

  It's good to get ready for results day. Find out when results are available from exam boards and whether you can access results online. Your school or college should be able to help. You might not have applied to uni yet this year, or have changed your mind about the course you want to study so think about shortlisting some alternative courses in advance. Take another look at your personal statement in case unis want to see it on results day. 

• Can I apply if I haven't applied on UCAS?

  Yes, you can still apply through Clearing - you'll find more information on this below.

• What is UCAS Hub?

  UCAS Hub is the same as UCAS Track, it's just been re-named. UCAS Hub is a centralised place where you can use tools to explore courses, make a shortlist and prepare for your application.

• When does UCAS Hub update on results day?

  UCAS Hub will update first thing in the morning when it has received your A-level results.

• Can you reject your firm choice on results day?

  Yes you can. It's possible to reject your firm choice and then go into Clearing if you've changed your mind.

• How long do universities take to respond and give offers?

  Universities can respond immediately and depending on your situation they might be able to make you an offer while you are on the phone with them - some courses require an interview or ask to see your portfolio.

• What should I do before the Clearing phone call and what questions could I ask?

  It's useful to think what you might need to say on the phone when you contact a uni during Clearing. Maybe prepare a list of Clearing phone call questions you’d like to ask us, here's some examples:

  • If I'm eligible for Clearing could I go to university this year?
  • I don't meet the entry requirements on the university website, what other qualifications could I use?
  • Will I be automatically entered into Clearing during this call?

• What things should I get ready before a Clearing phone call?

  • A list of the courses or subject areas you’re interested in
  • Your qualifications and grades (if you’re waiting for exam results, call us and we’ll explain your options)
  • Your UCAS ID number (if you are applying through Clearing without UCAS, you won’t have one)
  • Your date of birth, postal address, email address and phone number.
  • For some courses you’ll also need to have a link to an online portfolio. Here’s how to create an online portfolio for Clearing.

• What happens on the Clearing phone call?

  • When you call our Clearing hotline on 01273 644000 you’ll speak with a member of our Clearing team and possibly an admissions tutor.
  • You might receive a verbal offer - this means you will have a place held with us. If you get a verbal offer we will email you confirming this and explain how to accept the offer.
  • If you need to come to interview, here’s the guidance on how you can prepare for a Clearing interview.

UCAS Clearing gives you lots of choices. Clearing is also an opportunity for you to contact the university directly. University offers and places through Clearing are your way into university.

Understanding how to apply is just about knowing where you are in the university Clearing process. It’s actually much easier than most people think. Every year all kinds of people enter Clearing and go on to get their place at uni and then achieve excellent results.