Introduction
UCAS Clearing can feel overwhelming, but it’s actually a fantastic opportunity. Every year, thousands of students find the right course through Clearing — whether they didn’t receive offers, changed their mind, or applied late. The key to success is understanding the process and approaching it with a clear plan.
This guide breaks Clearing down step-by-step, so you know exactly what to do from start to finish.
Quick Start Checklist
- Check if you’re eligible for Clearing.
- Research available courses.
- Prepare your personal details and UCAS ID.
- Contact universities directly.
- Record offers and make decisions quickly.
- Confirm your place in UCAS Hub.
Step 1: Check Eligibility
You can use Clearing if:
- You didn’t receive any offers.
- You declined all your offers.
- You didn’t meet the conditions of your firm or insurance choice.
- You’re applying after 30 June.
Log into UCAS Hub to see if you’re “in Clearing.”
Step 2: Research Available Courses
Universities update their Clearing vacancies regularly on UCAS and their own websites. Focus on:
- Courses that match your strengths.
- Universities you’d genuinely like to attend.
- Entry requirements you can realistically meet.
Keep a shortlist of at least 5–10 courses.
Step 3: Prepare Before Calling
Before phoning universities, have these ready:
- Your UCAS ID and Clearing number (found in UCAS Hub).
