If you didn’t receive any offers or didn’t meet your conditions for admission, UCAS Clearing offers you a second chance to find the right course. Every year, thousands of students successfully secure places at UK universities through this process. If you’re still unsure about how it works, this blog covers the most common FAQs on UCAS Clearing to help you make sense of your next steps. We’ll explain what is UCAS Clearing, who can apply, how to search for courses, and how to accept an offer once you find the right fit.
Understanding UCAS Clearing: Key FAQs
What is UCAS Clearing?
UCAS Clearing is a service that allows students to apply for university courses with available places after the main UCAS application deadline (30 June) has passed. It’s a second chance for those who didn’t receive offers, didn’t meet offer conditions, or applied late.
Who is eligible for UCAS Clearing?
You’re eligible if you:
- Didn’t receive any offers or declined all offers.
- Didn’t meet the conditions of your firm or insurance offers.
- Applied after 30 June 2025 (late applications enter Clearing automatically).
- Want to change course or university after accepting an offer (via self-release).
Your UCAS Hub will confirm your eligibility and display your Clearing number if applicable.
When does UCAS Clearing start and end in 2025?
Clearing opens on 5 July 2025 and closes on 20 October 2025. The busiest period is just after A-Level results day on 14 August, when most students receive their final grades and start applying through Clearing.
Can international students use UCAS Clearing?
Yes, international students who meet the eligibility criteria can apply through Clearing. However, they should ensure they have the necessary visas and meet any additional entry requirements set by universities.
What’s the best way to approach Clearing?
Approach UCAS Clearing with preparation and flexibility:
- Research courses and universities with vacancies before results day.
- Keep a list of university contact numbers and course codes ready.
- Be clear and professional when contacting admissions teams.
- Have your exam results, personal statement, and UCAS ID handy.
- Act quickly after results day, as popular courses fill fast.
- Stay open-minded about course choices and locations to increase your chances.
How will you know if you’re in Clearing?
You’ll know you’re in UCAS Clearing when your UCAS Hub shows no offers held and displays a Clearing number. This usually happens after results are released if you haven’t secured a place. UCAS will also notify you by email and update your application status to indicate Clearing eligibility.
Which universities accept students through Clearing?
Most UK universities, including many Russell Group and top-ranked institutions, accept students through the UCAS Clearing system. Clearing is not limited to less competitive universities; availability depends on course demand and the number of vacancies. You can check course vacancies on the UCAS website and contact universities directly to confirm.
Can you reject your offer and go through Clearing instead?
Yes, you can reject or decline your current offer and enter Clearing by using the ‘decline my place’ or self-release option in your UCAS Hub. However, this is irreversible; once you decline your place, it may be offered to another applicant. Think carefully before taking this step, and consider contacting your current university first if you want to change courses within the same institution.
Preparing for UCAS Clearing 2025-26: FAQs for Before Results Day
How should you prepare for UCAS Clearing?
Start preparing before results day by:
- Researching courses and universities with potential vacancies.
- Making a list of courses, contact numbers, and course codes.
- Reviewing your personal statement so you can discuss it confidently.
- Having your UCAS ID, exam results, and personal details ready.
- Charging your phone and laptop fully before making calls.
Being organised and prepared reduces stress and improves your chances.
What documents are needed for Clearing?
You’ll need:
- Your UCAS personal ID and Clearing number (if eligible).
- Exam results or predicted grades.
- Personal statement and reference details.
- English proficiency scores (e.g., IELTS) if applicable.
- Passport and visa documents if you’re an international applicant.
Can one apply for any course through Clearing?
Most undergraduate courses are available through Clearing; however, some highly competitive courses, such as medicine and veterinary science, rarely have vacancies. Always check individual university policies.
How many universities can a student apply to during Clearing?
You can only hold one Clearing choice at a time. If you decline or are rejected, you can then apply for another course until Clearing closes.
How UCAS Clearing Works: FAQs During the Application Process
How does UCAS Clearing work?
Once you receive your results and are eligible, your Clearing number appears in your UCAS Hub. You then:
- Search for courses with vacancies using the UCAS Clearing search tool.
- Contact universities directly to discuss your qualifications and interest.
- Receive a verbal offer if the university can offer you a place.
- Add the Clearing choice in your UCAS Hub to accept the offer.
- Wait for confirmation through UCAS Track.
If rejected, repeat the process with other universities.
How to log into UCAS Clearing?
You use your existing UCAS Hub or UCAS Track login credentials. Your Clearing number will be visible if you’re eligible, allowing you to add Clearing choices and manage your application.
Can a student use UCAS Clearing if they already have an offer?
You must self-release your current offer in your UCAS Hub before applying through Clearing. This formally declines your existing place and frees you to apply for new courses.
What are Clearing matches?
UCAS offers a ‘My Matches’ feature in your Hub, suggesting courses with vacancies based on your qualifications and preferences. It’s a useful tool for quickly identifying suitable options.
Can students change their course or university through Clearing?
Yes, Clearing is designed for flexibility. You can apply for a different subject or university than your original choices, opening new opportunities.
Is there a time limit for responding during UCAS Clearing?
Clearing places fill fast, especially immediately after results day. Acting promptly increases your chances of securing a place on your preferred course.
Are clearing places available at top universities?
Yes, many prestigious universities, including Russell Group institutions, fill places through Clearing. Availability depends on course demand and vacancies, not university prestige.
Will universities go below their usual entry requirements during Clearing?
Universities sometimes offer places through clearing with slightly lower entry requirements than usual, especially if they have unfilled places late in the cycle. However, this varies by course and institution, and entry standards generally remain high to ensure students can succeed. It’s always best to check directly with the university about their current requirements during Clearing.
How do you find accommodation while going through Clearing?
Finding accommodation during Clearing can be challenging due to the late timing. Many universities reserve some rooms specifically for clearing applicants, so contact the university’s accommodation office as soon as you receive an offer. Additionally, explore private rentals early and consider short-term options like homestays or student halls with flexible contracts. University websites and student forums are great resources for up-to-date housing information.
After You Apply: FAQs About Offers, Confirmation and Next Steps
What happens after a student adds a Clearing choice?
Once you add a Clearing choice in your UCAS Hub, the university will confirm your place via UCAS Track, usually within 24 hours. After confirmation, you’re officially accepted.
Can a Clearing offer be declined?
Yes, you can decline a Clearing offer if you change your mind. Remember, you can only hold one Clearing choice at a time, so declining allows you to apply elsewhere.
How is student finance arranged when applying through Clearing?
Applying through Clearing does not affect your eligibility for student finance. Notify Student Finance England (or the relevant body) once your place is confirmed to ensure your funding is processed.
How long does the Clearing process take?
The length varies, but most students secure a place within a few days of results day if they act quickly. Some may take longer depending on course availability and university response times.
What support is available during Clearing?
UCAS offers helplines, live chat, and detailed guides to support students. Schools and colleges often provide career advice, and many universities run Clearing open days to help applicants.
What are Clearing open days?
Many universities hold Clearing open days in July and August, allowing you to visit campuses, meet staff, and get a feel for the university before applying. These events can help you make informed decisions.
UCAS Clearing Results Day 2025: FAQs Students Ask the Most
How should you prepare for results day?
Prepare well in advance by researching universities and courses that interest you, especially those with Clearing places. Have your UCAS Personal ID, Clearing number (if eligible), exam results, and a list of questions ready. Charge your phone fully, find a quiet space for calls, and keep a notepad handy. Emotionally, be ready for any outcome, stay calm, keep an open mind, and remember support is available if you need it.
How do you check if you have a place at university?
On results day, log in to your UCAS Hub or UCAS Track account from around 8 am onwards. Your application status will update to show if you’ve secured a place, whether through your firm or insurance choice, or if you’re eligible for Clearing. Be patient, as the system can be busy. Always check your emails and messages for updates from universities.
What should you do if you’re away for results day?
If you won’t be at your usual address, arrange in advance to collect your results by email or post, or authorise someone to collect them on your behalf. Make sure you have access to your UCAS Hub online to check your application status. Keep your phone charged and maintain a stable internet connection so you can respond quickly if needed.
You’ve got your expected results and met the entry requirements of your Conditional Firm (CF) choice. Do you need to do anything on results day?
If you meet the conditions of your Conditional Firm offer, you don’t need to take any action. Your place is confirmed automatically, and you’ll receive a confirmation email from UCAS and your university. However, it’s wise to check your UCAS Hub to ensure your status is updated and to prepare for enrolment details or welcome events.
You just missed out on your Conditional Firm (CF) choice. Is it worth calling them to see if they’ll still offer you a place?
Yes, it’s often worth contacting your CF university. Sometimes universities may still offer places if they have flexibility or if other students decline their offers. Be polite and explain your situation clearly. However, don’t rely solely on this; also, explore Clearing options promptly to keep your chances open.
You haven’t achieved the grades needed for your chosen university. What can you do?
If you don’t meet your offer conditions, you can:
- Apply through UCAS Clearing to find courses with vacancies.
- Contact your university to see if they offer any foundation or alternative programmes.
- Consider deferring your place for a year or retaking exams if possible.
- Seek advice from your school, UCAS, or university admissions teams.
Clearing is a well-established route that offers many opportunities to find a suitable course, even if your results aren’t as expected.
What if you want to appeal your A Level results?
You can appeal your results if you believe there has been an error in marking or administration. Contact your school or exam board promptly to understand the appeals process and deadlines. Bear in mind that appeals can take time and may not guarantee a change in your grades, so it’s important to have a backup plan, such as Clearing or alternative courses
Understanding what is UCAS Clearing, your eligibility for the process, and how UCAS Clearing works is essential to make the most of this second chance. Preparation, prompt action, and clear communication with universities will greatly improve your chances of securing a place for 2025-26. Always check your UCAS Hub regularly and use the official UCAS resources for the latest updates.
For personalised support through UCAS Clearing and beyond, trust UniScholars to guide you every step of the way.
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