Clearing begins in August
Clearing begins in August and is used by applicants who haven’t managed to secure a place at university or college for the current year. More than 30,000 people gain a place during Clearing every year, so if you’re prepared to be flexible and have reasonable exam results, there’s a good chance you’ll find a course.
Who can use Clearing?
The criteria for using Clearing are outlined by UCAS. You’re eligible for Clearing if you have applied in the current application year, and if:
- You have not withdrawn your application;
- You hold no offers; or
- Your offers have not been confirmed because you have not met the conditions(eg you have not achieved the required grades); or
- You have declined your offers or not responded by the due date; or
- Your offers have not been confirmed, and you have declined any alternative offers from the same university; or
- You have applied after 30 June (12 June for Route B art and design courses). If UCAS received your application after these dates, they will not have sent it to any universities and colleges.
When clearing vacancies are published
Course vacancies in Clearing are published on www.ucas.com from mid-August until late-September.
Further information about how to apply is available nearer the time.
Tips for students going through Clearing
Be quick
Vacancies listed on Clearing tend to fill up quickly, so a fast response will increase your chances of being accepted on the course you want. Make sure you have all the paperwork you’ll need to hand.
Be realistic and flexible
Check the requirements and if you don’t have the grades you need for your chosen subject, consider an alternative course, as well as an alternative institution. If you have a specific career in mind, vocational qualifications such as foundation degrees are becoming increasingly popular.
Do your research
While flexibility is important, the course and institution you choose must still be right for you. A useful resource is the Education Guardian’s University Guide 2008, which offers advice on institutions and subjects.
You can also research institutions on their websites or contact them directly with any questions about requirements for the course.
Keep an eye on your account on the UCAS website to make sure you haven't already been offered a place.
Think carefully before accepting
Think carefully before you accept an offer, as you can only accept one. Make sure it really is the right choice for you.
Make sure you have financial support
Make sure you have all the financial support you are eligible for. For more information on this, see our student finance section.