August 2023
For many students, the prospect of entering university through the traditional UCAS application process can be both exciting and rather nerve-wracking at the same time. But what happens if your results aren't what you hoped for or you have a change of heart about your course choices? This is where UCAS Clearing comes in and it offers another way of securing a place at university. In this blog, we'll explore what UCAS Clearing is, how it works, and provide essential tips to help you make the most of Clearing opportunities to achieve your goals.
What is UCAS Clearing?
Lots of students have heard of “Clearing”, but sometimes the process isn’t fully understood. Clearing is an annual process and this year it opened on 5th July and it will remain open until 17th October 2023.
It is designed to provide additional opportunities for students to find a university course and for universities to fill their places. It can offer a lifeline to students who either missed the main deadline (end of June), or who didn't meet the conditions of their original university course offers and those who want to change their course choices after exam results. For universities, Clearing offers a way to advertise courses that still have vacancies - it is worth bearing mind that universities will be very keen to fill every spot.
Who can use UCAS Clearing?
If you are not sure whether Clearing is for you, here is a breakdown of who could use it.
Students who have paid the £27 multiple choice application fee
Students applying for a university place after the 30th June 2023 deadline
Students without any offers from the universities that they applied to
Students who gain higher final grades than predicted and who now want to apply to other courses (where vacancies still exist)
Students who didn’t meet the conditions of their conditional offers
Students who change their mind and now wish to apply to other courses.
We recommend that every student should take a look at the courses in Clearing ahead of results day to identify a possible Plan B just in case things don’t work out as planned. Here is what you should do:
What can you do before results day?
What should I do on results day?
Our Top Tips for Clearing Success
Stay calm and positive: Clearing can feel daunting but try to remain positive and approach it with an open mind. Many students do find excellent alternative courses through Clearing and it can be onwards and upwards from there.
Research thoroughly: Take the time to research courses and universities that interest you. Consider factors like course content, location, facilities, and graduate prospects. Head to UCAS Clearing Search
Get prepared for some phone calls: When calling universities, be prepared to discuss your qualifications, your skills and passion for the subject. Show enthusiasm and ask any questions you may have.
Seek Advice: Don't hesitate to seek support and guidance from your teachers, parents or a careers adviser. They could offer valuable insights and perspectives that will help you during the Clearing process. If you would like to reach out to our careers advisers for some one-to-one careers advice and guidance, then you can contact us at helpline@futuresmartcareers.co.uk
Consider other options: If you didn’t get want you want in the mainstream or Clearing processes, why not consider a gap year or applying to an apprenticeship. There are lots of other opportunities out there!
Using UCAS Clearing can be a fantastic way to secure a place at university. Embrace the process and remember that many students do find their dream courses this way. With some good research, a positive attitude and taking prompt action, you can find a course that excites you and sets you on the way to fulfilling your ambitions.
If would like to talk to any of our careers advisers for specialised one-to-one personal careers advice and guidance about navigating Clearing and understanding your options, please do reach out to us at helpline@futuresmartcareers.co.uk
Good luck!
Attirbutes for Images:
Image 1: image by Freepik
Image 2: by rawpixel.com on Freepik
Image 3: by rawpixel.com on Freepik