What is Ucas clearing?

Applying to university is a major milestone in any student’s life, but sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned. Maybe you didn’t get the grades you hoped for, or perhaps you’ve changed your mind about where or what you want to study. That’s where UCAS Clearing comes in—a crucial system that gives students a second chance to find the right university place.

If you’re feeling uncertain about what Clearing involves or how to make the most of it, you’re not alone. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about UCAS Clearing, from understanding the process to offering tips on how to navigate it successfully. By the end, you’ll feel equipped to approach Clearing with confidence, knowing that there’s still plenty of opportunity to secure a spot at university.

What is UCAS Clearing?

UCAS Clearing is a system used by universities in the UK to fill any remaining places on their courses. It’s part of the larger application process managed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). Clearing typically runs from July to October each year and is primarily for students who haven’t yet secured a place at university.

You might find yourself in Clearing if:

• You didn’t receive any offers from the universities you applied to.
• You declined all your offers, and now want to find a different course or university.
• You didn’t meet the conditions of your firm or insurance choices (for example, you didn’t achieve the required grades).
• You applied after the 30th June deadline—in this case, your application is automatically entered into Clearing.

Clearing is also a viable option for students who have had a change of heart about what they want to study or where they want to go. It’s an opportunity to explore other options and make a fresh start.

How Does the Clearing Process Work?

The Clearing process can seem daunting at first, but it’s actually quite straightforward once you understand the steps involved. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how Clearing works:

• Check Your Eligibility - The first step is to check if you’re eligible for Clearing. You’ll know you’re in Clearing if your UCAS Track status shows the message: "You are in Clearing" or "Clearing has started." If you applied after 30th June, your application is automatically entered into Clearing.
• Get Your Clearing Number- Once you’re in Clearing, you’ll receive a Clearing number. This number is essential because you’ll need to provide it to universities when discussing course availability. You can find your Clearing number on your UCAS Track page.
• Research Courses and Universities- Use the UCAS Clearing website or the UCAS search tool to look for courses with vacancies. This tool is updated frequently as universities add new courses and update availability. Make a shortlist of courses that interest you and meet your requirements.
• Contact Universities Directly- Once you have a list of potential courses, start contacting universities directly. This is usually done by phone, but many universities also offer options to chat online or via email. Be prepared to discuss why you’re interested in the course and provide details such as your Clearing number, grades, and relevant experience.
• Receive Verbal Offers- During your conversations with university admissions teams, you may receive verbal offers. This means the university is willing to offer you a place on the course, subject to certain conditions. Remember, you can speak to multiple universities and receive several offers before making your final decision.
• Add Your Clearing Choice on UCAS- Once you’ve decided on a course and received a verbal offer, log into UCAS Track and add your Clearing choice. You can only add one Clearing choice at a time, so make sure it’s the right one for you. The university will then confirm your place, and if everything is in order, you’ll be officially accepted.

Who Can Use UCAS Clearing?

Clearing is open to a variety of applicants, each with unique circumstances. Here are some of the common scenarios in which you might use Clearing:

• Students Who Didn’t Meet Their Offer Conditions: If you didn’t achieve the grades required for your firm or insurance choices, Clearing gives you another opportunity to find a place at university.
• Students Without Any Offers: Whether you didn’t receive any offers or declined the ones you had, Clearing allows you to apply to universities with vacancies.
• Late Applicants: If you’ve decided to apply to university after the main application deadline (30th June), your application will automatically enter Clearing.
• Students Wanting to Change Courses or Universities: Sometimes, plans change, and you may decide that your initial course or university isn’t the right fit. Clearing lets you explore new options and make a switch.

Tips for Navigating UCAS Clearing Successfully

Entering Clearing doesn’t mean your options are limited. In fact, many students find excellent courses and universities through Clearing. Here are some tips to help you navigate the process successfully:

1. Prepare Ahead of Time- Even if you’re confident about your results, it’s a good idea to familiarize yourself with the Clearing process before results day. Research potential courses, make a list of universities you’re interested in, and keep important documents (such as your Clearing number and UCAS Personal ID) handy.
2. Stay Calm and Focused- Clearing can be a busy and sometimes stressful period, but staying calm and focused is crucial. If you don’t get the results you expected, take a moment to process before jumping into the Clearing process. Remember that thousands of students go through Clearing each year and end up in places they love.
3. Be Proactive- As soon as you know you’re in Clearing, start researching courses and contacting universities. The earlier you act, the better your chances of securing a place on a course you’re interested in.
4. Have a Clear Plan- Know what you’re looking for in a course and university. Consider factors such as course content, location, and accommodation options. Having a clear idea of what you want will make it easier to identify the right opportunities when speaking to universities.
5. Keep an Open Mind- Be open to considering different courses or universities that you may not have thought about initially. Clearing can introduce you to new possibilities that are a better fit for your career goals and interests.
6. Get Help and Advice- Don’t hesitate to seek advice from teachers, family, or friends. If you need professional guidance, speak to a UCAS advisor or your school’s career counselor. They can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions.
7. Prepare to Speak to Universities- When contacting universities, be ready to talk about your interests, why you want to join the course, and what makes you a good fit. Have a copy of your personal statement and any relevant documents (e.g., results, CV) on hand to reference.
8. Be Ready to Accept Offers Quickly- Once you’ve received a verbal offer that you’re happy with, be prepared to confirm your choice on UCAS Track promptly. Spaces can fill up quickly during Clearing, so it’s important not to delay once you’ve made your decision.

What Happens After Clearing?

After securing a place through Clearing, it’s time to prepare for your new university life. Here’s what you should do next:

• Confirm Your Place: Make sure everything is confirmed on UCAS Track. You’ll receive a confirmation email or letter from your university with information on what to do next.
• Organize Your Finances: If you haven’t already done so, apply for student finance. Ensure you have funds in place for tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.
• Sort Out Accommodation: Check with your university about available accommodation options. Some universities reserve spots for students joining through Clearing, but act quickly as spaces may be limited.
• Attend Orientation: Look out for any pre-arrival events or orientation programs. These are great opportunities to meet new people and get familiar with your university environment.

Final Thoughts

UCAS Clearing might feel like a last-minute option, but it can open doors to new opportunities and unexpected paths. With a proactive approach and a clear understanding of the process, you can navigate Clearing successfully and secure a place at a university you’re excited about. Remember, there’s no “right” way to get to university—what matters most is finding a place where you can thrive academically and personally. So, take a deep breath, follow the steps, and look forward to an exciting new chapter!