Every year, thousands of students secure a university place through Clearing. For some, it's because they didn't get the grades they were hoping for. For others, it's a chance to change course, apply later than planned, or find a university that's a better fit.

Despite its reputation, Clearing isn't a last resort. It's simply another admissions route that allows universities with available places to match them with prospective students.

If you're considering Clearing this year, it's natural to have questions. We’ve put together everything you need to know, from key dates and eligibility to accepting an offer through Clearing.

What Is Clearing?

University Clearing is a UCAS process that helps universities fill any remaining course vacancies before the academic year begins. It also gives students another opportunity to secure a university place if their original plans have changed.

Although many people associate Clearing with Results Day, it's open to a much wider range of applicants. Every year, students use Clearing for different reasons, whether that's because they applied after the main UCAS deadline, changed their mind about their course, or simply found a university that suits them better.

For universities, Clearing is an opportunity to fill places on courses that still have capacity. For students, it's a chance to explore options they may not have previously considered.

Who can use Clearing?

You may be eligible for Clearing if:

  • You didn't receive any offers through your original UCAS application.
  • You didn't meet the conditions of your firm or insurance offer.
  • You're applying after the main UCAS application deadline.
  • You've changed your mind about the course or university you'd like to attend.

If you're eligible, the next step is understanding how the UCAS Clearing system process works and what you'll need to do.

Key Clearing Dates to Know

Although the exact dates vary slightly each year, Clearing follows a predictable timeline.

When does university Clearing open?

Clearing usually opens in early July. Initially, it's mainly used by students who already know they're eligible, such as those applying after the main application deadline.

However, the busiest period begins on and after Results Day, once A-level and other qualification results are released, as this is when most students confirm whether they have met the conditions of their offers.

When does university Clearing end?

Clearing normally remains open until late September or early October, although many popular courses fill well before the final deadline.

If you're interested in a competitive subject or a particular university, it's worth researching your options as early as possible rather than waiting until the final weeks.

Clearing timeline at a glance

  • Early July: Clearing opens.
  • Results Day: Most students begin using Clearing.
  • August: Universities advertise available courses and process applications.
  • Late September/October: Clearing closes for the academic year.

How long does university Clearing take?

There's no single answer, as every student's experience is different. Some students secure a place within a few hours of receiving their results, while others spend several days comparing courses before making a decision.

As a general guide:

Stage Typical timeframe
Researching available courses A few minutes to several days
Speaking to universities Usually the same day
Receiving a verbal offer Often during the call
UCAS confirmation Usually within a few days

Although it can be tempting to accept the first offer you receive, it's worth taking a little time to compare your options if you have more than one university interested in offering you a place.

How UCAS Clearing Works: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're wondering how to apply to university through Clearing, the process is more straightforward than many students expect.

Step 1: Check you're eligible

Before doing anything else, confirm that you're eligible to enter Clearing. If you're unsure about your status, your UCAS account will show whether you're eligible to use Clearing.

Step 2: Research available courses

Once you're eligible, start exploring the courses with vacancies. Don't focus solely on university rankings. Take time to compare:

  • Course content and optional modules
  • Teaching methods
  • Assessment styles
  • Placement opportunities
  • Campus location
  • Accommodation availability

Choosing a university is about much more than its position in a league table. Thinking carefully about course content, teaching style, location and student life can make a real difference. A course that's slightly lower in league tables may ultimately be a much better fit for your interests and career goals.

Use UCAS search tool and make a shortlist before you begin contacting universities so you can stay organised during what can be a busy period.

Step 4: Receive a verbal/informal offer

If the university would like to offer you a place, they'll usually make what's known as a verbal offer.

This isn't your confirmed place yet. Instead, it's the university letting you know they're prepared to accept your application if you choose them through UCAS.

If you've contacted several universities, it's perfectly acceptable to compare your options before making a decision.

Note: If you're already holding a confirmed university place but changed your mind and decided you'd prefer a different course through Clearing, you'll normally need to decline your existing place before accepting a new Clearing offer.

Think carefully before making this decision. Once you've released yourself into Clearing, there's no guarantee another university will offer you a place, so it's generally best to wait until you've received a verbal offer before giving up your confirmed place.

Step 5: Add your Clearing choice

Once you've decided which university you'd like to attend, you can add your 'Clearing choice' through your UCAS account. You should only add a Clearing choice once the university has told you it's happy to accept you.

The university will then review your application and, if everything is in order, confirm your place.

Step 6: Receive confirmation

At this stage, you can begin preparing for university as normal, including arranging accommodation, student finance (if required) and enrolment. For many students, the entire process takes just a few days, although this can vary depending on the university and how quickly you make your decision.

Once your place is confirmed, you can start thinking about practical preparations, from arranging accommodation and student finance.

Read more on what to expect during your first few weeks at university.

What Happens During a Clearing Call?

Speaking to universities on the phone can feel daunting. Every university has its own admissions process, but you'll usually be asked some straightforward questions about your application.

These may include:

  • Your UCAS ID and qualifications
  • The grades you've achieved
  • Which course you're interested in
  • Why you'd like to study that subject
  • Whether you've considered similar courses or universities
  • Whether you have any questions about the course or university

Some universities may also ask about your personal statement or any relevant experience, particularly for competitive courses.

Tips for calling universities during Clearing

The conversations you have with admissions teams can play an important role in helping you decide where to study. A little preparation beforehand can make the process much less stressful.

  • Call yourself if you can

    Admissions teams will usually want to speak directly to the applicant. Parents, teachers and carers can certainly support you, but you're likely to get the most out of the conversation by making the call yourself.

  • Keep your grades and UCAS details close by

    Having your results, UCAS ID and course information ready means you won't need to search for them while you're on the phone.

  • Make notes after every conversation

    It's easy for details to blur together if you speak to several universities in one day.
    Write down who you spoke to, any verbal offers you received, important deadline and accommodation information

  • Don't feel pressured into accepting immediately

    If more than one university offers you a place, it's perfectly reasonable to take a little time to compare your options before adding a Clearing choice in UCAS. Choosing the right course is usually more important than choosing the quickest one.

Remember, you're interviewing the university too

It's easy to think of a Clearing call as an assessment, but it's also your chance to decide whether the university is the right fit for you. Remember that the conversation works both ways. It's your opportunity to decide whether the university is the right fit for you, so don't be afraid to ask questions before making your decision, particularly if you're comparing more than one offer.

Some useful questions include:

  • What optional modules are available?
  • How many contact hours can students typically expect each week?
  • Are there opportunities for placements, internships or studying abroad?
  • Is university accommodation still available?
  • What academic and wellbeing support is available for first-year students?
  • What do graduates from this course typically go on to do?

Clearing Can Open Unexpected Opportunities

Missing out on your original university choice can feel disappointing, but it doesn't mean your plans have to stop there. Every year, thousands of students find courses and universities through Clearing that prove to be an excellent fit for their interests and ambitions.

The key is to stay calm, research your options carefully and avoid rushing into a decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Clearing only for students who missed their grades?

No. Although many students enter Clearing because they didn't meet the conditions of their offers, it's also available to students who applied after the main UCAS deadline, changed their mind about where they want to study, or aren't currently holding a university place.

Can I use Clearing if I already have a university place?

Yes. If you've decided you'd prefer a different university or course, you can enter Clearing. In most cases, you'll need to decline your existing place (or use UCAS's self-release process where available) before accepting a new Clearing offer. Be certain about your decision before doing so, as giving up a confirmed place doesn't guarantee you'll receive another offer.

Do Oxford or Cambridge accept students through Clearing?

The Universities of Oxford and Cambridge do not participate in UCAS Clearing. Unlike many other universities, they don't usually advertise vacancies through the Clearing process.

If you're hoping to study at either university and don't receive an offer, you'll normally need to apply again in a future admissions cycle rather than through Clearing.

Can international students apply through Clearing?

Yes, many universities accept international students through Clearing, provided there are places available on the course and you meet the entry requirements. You should also consider visa timelines and any additional application requirements before accepting an offer.

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