Introduction – Why Clearing 2025 Matters More Than Ever
Every year, thousands of UK students secure a university place through UCAS Clearing — and in 2025, competition is expected to be intense. With record numbers of international applicants and rising grade boundaries in some subjects, Clearing isn’t just a last resort — it’s a golden opportunity for students who are flexible, quick, and strategic.
Whether you’ve missed your grades, changed your mind about your course, or are applying late, Clearing allows you to match with universities that still have open spots. This guide from RevisionDojo will walk you step-by-step through the Clearing process so you can secure your dream course before the deadline closes.
What Is UCAS Clearing?
UCAS Clearing is the process where universities offer unfilled course places to students who:
- Didn’t receive offers (or declined them) earlier in the cycle
- Didn’t meet their conditional offer grades
- Applied after the 30 June deadline
- Changed their mind about their chosen course or location
Clearing is open from 5 July to 21 October 2025 — but the earlier you act, the better your chances of getting a competitive spot.
Key Dates for UCAS Clearing 2025
- 8 July 2025 – Clearing officially opens for all eligible students.
- 15 August 2025 – A-Level results day in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
- 15–21 August 2025 – Peak Clearing activity. Most competitive courses fill quickly during this week.
- 21 October 2025 – Clearing closes.
Step 1 – Confirm Your Eligibility
You can use Clearing if:
- You’re not holding any offers.
- You applied after 30 June.
- You didn’t meet the conditions of your offer.
If you’ve accepted a place but want to switch, you’ll need to release yourself into Clearing using UCAS Hub.
Step 2 – Research Available Courses Quickly
The UCAS Clearing Search Tool updates in real time and lists all available courses. Use filters for subject, location, and entry requirements.
RevisionDojo Tip:
Don’t just focus on “big name” universities — many excellent Russell Group and top-50 institutions enter Clearing every year for specific courses.
Step 3 – Prepare Your Pitch Before You Call
When you find a course you like, you’ll need to call the admissions team directly. Be ready with:
- Your UCAS ID number
- Your grades (A-level, BTEC, IB, etc.)
- A short explanation of why you want the course
- Any relevant work experience or extracurriculars
Pro tip: Practice a confident but concise introduction so you sound prepared and motivated.
Step 4 – Make Multiple Calls (Fast)
You are not limited to one application in Clearing — you can call multiple universities to explore your options.
Why speed matters: Courses can fill within hours of A-Level results being released. If you wait until the afternoon, your options could be much narrower.
Step 5 – Get Verbal Offers and Confirm on UCAS
If a university offers you a place over the phone, don’t celebrate yet — you must add them as your Clearing choice in UCAS Hub for it to be official.
Step 6 – Stay Flexible on Subject & Location
You might not get your first choice subject — but there are creative ways to pivot:
- Apply for a similar course with lower entry requirements, then switch after Year 1.
- Choose a foundation year if you narrowly missed grades.
- Consider joint honours degrees that include your preferred subject.
Common Clearing Myths (Debunked)
- Myth 1: Only “bad” universities use Clearing.
Truth: Many prestigious universities have Clearing spots in niche subjects. - Myth 2: You can only call once.
Truth: You can contact as many universities as you want. - Myth 3: Clearing means you’ve failed.
Truth: Over 70,000 students used Clearing last year — many to get into top-ranked programs.
How to Boost Your Chances in Clearing 2025
- Use your network: Ask teachers or advisors to recommend you to admissions staff.
- Check university websites: Some list Clearing vacancies earlier than UCAS.
- Be realistic but ambitious: Apply to a mix of “reach” and “safe” courses.
- Have your personal statement ready: Some universities will still want to see it.
Special Clearing Tips for International Students
If you’re applying from outside the UK:
- Have your visa and English language test scores ready.
- Check if universities accept scanned documents for quick verification.
- Be aware of application deadlines for accommodation — they fill up fast.
Clearing vs. Adjustment vs. Late Applications
- Clearing: For those without offers or who missed grades.
- Adjustment: For those who exceeded their conditional offer and want to “trade up.”
- Late Applications: After 30 June, these are automatically considered through Clearing.
Last-Minute Clearing Checklist
- ✅ UCAS Hub login details ready
- ✅ Copies of grades & transcripts
- ✅ List of target universities and courses
- ✅ Prepared phone script
- ✅ Backup subject options
FAQs – UCAS Clearing 2025
Q: Can I use Clearing if I applied through my school?
Yes. Your UCAS login works the same way — you just need to add Clearing choices directly.
Q: Do I have to pay extra for Clearing?
No. If you’ve already paid your UCAS application fee, Clearing is included.
Q: Can I change my Clearing choice after accepting?
Only if the new university offers you a place and you formally switch in UCAS Hub.
Q: How fast should I act?
Ideally within 24–48 hours of results day for the best options.
Final Thoughts – Act Fast, Stay Flexible
Clearing is all about speed, strategy, and flexibility. If you’re organised, you could land a place at a university that’s just as good (or better) than your original choice.
At RevisionDojo, we’ve helped countless students navigate the chaos of results day and secure offers they’re proud of. The key? Preparation before the phone lines open.
Call to Action:
📌 Want a personalised Clearing action plan for your grades and goals? Visit RevisionDojo today — we’ll help you shortlist courses, prepare your pitch, and secure your dream spot before places fill.
