Q: How can parents best support their child during Clearing?
A: The most valuable thing you can do is stay calm and encourage your child to make their own decisions. Offer reassurance, help them stay organised, and remind them that Clearing is not a sign that something has gone wrong. For many students, it's an opportunity to find a course or university that's a better fit.
You can also help by researching courses together, writing down questions before speaking to universities, and encouraging them to attend campus visits or explore virtual tours before making a decision.
Q: What information should students have ready?
A: Having the right information to hand makes the process much smoother. Students should have:
Being prepared helps students make informed decisions and allows universities to process applications more quickly.
Q: Should parents speak to universities on their child's behalf?
A: Universities are happy to answer general questions from parents and carers, but admissions decisions must be discussed directly with the student. Encouraging your child to make the call themselves helps ensure they receive personalised advice and builds confidence at an important stage of the process.
Q: How quickly do universities make Clearing offers?
A: In many cases, students receive a decision during their conversation with the university. Once an offer is made, they'll be guided through the next steps, including accepting the offer through UCAS and receiving information about enrolment and accommodation.
Q: What if my child has already accepted an offer from a university but has changed their mind?
A: That's increasingly common. Many students use Clearing because they've reconsidered what or where they want to study after visiting universities, receiving their results or thinking more carefully about their future plans. Clearing gives them the flexibility to explore those options.
Q: What support is available once a student accepts a place?
A: Universities provide a wide range of support to help students settle into university life. At Brighton, this includes guidance on accommodation, student finance, wellbeing, disability support and preparing for life as a university student. Dedicated teams are available throughout the summer to answer questions before term begins.
Q: What financial support is available?
A: Starting university can be expensive, which is why the University of Brighton offers a range of financial support for eligible students.
Students applying through Clearing at the University of Brighton may be eligible for the Brighton Boost, which provides:
The university also offers a range of additional support, including bursaries for eligible students, flexible part-time work opportunities through the Student Jobs Hub, BSU Essentials for free everyday groceries, laptop loans for students who need them, and free parking for eligible commuter students.
Q: Can students visit before making a decision?
A: Yes. Campus visits are one of the best ways to decide whether a university feels right. Brighton offers Clearing campus tours alongside virtual tours of its campuses, giving students the opportunity to explore teaching facilities, accommodation and student spaces before confirming their place.
Q: What's the most important advice for parents on results day?
A: Remember that Clearing isn't a race. Encourage your young person to ask questions, compare their options and choose the university that's right for them, rather than feeling pressured into making an immediate decision. A calm conversation can make all the difference.
Business Management with Marketing student, Amalia Susanu, has shared her top tips for parents who are looking to explore Clearing on this blog.
Families can find more information about Clearing, available courses, campus visits and student support by visiting the University of Brighton's Clearing webpages or speaking to the University's dedicated Clearing advisers.