UCAS Clearing has transformed over the years from a simple vacancy-filling process into a dynamic, data-driven matching system. In 2025, Clearing Plus is one of UCAS’s most powerful tools for connecting students with the right universities and courses quickly. But while it can be a game-changer, few students truly understand how to use it to its full potential.
In this RevisionDojo guide, we’ll break down:
- How the Clearing Plus algorithm works
- Exactly how to opt in and get matched
- Strategies to appear in more universities’ searches
- The pros and cons of relying on Clearing Plus vs traditional Clearing
- Insider tips to maximise offers
- Common mistakes students make (and how to avoid them)
By the end, you’ll know how to use Clearing Plus to secure a place on a course that excites you—fast.
🔍 What is UCAS Clearing Plus?
Clearing Plus is an enhancement to the standard Clearing process. It uses UCAS’s data and algorithms to:
- Suggest courses you might be interested in
- Match you with universities that might be interested in you
It’s essentially a two-way matching system, designed to save both students and admissions teams time by filtering out obviously unsuitable matches.
Instead of trawling through hundreds of vacancies, you’ll get a personalised shortlist of courses that are likely to consider you—based on your grades, course preferences, and the patterns of similar students in previous years.
🧠 How the Clearing Plus Algorithm Works
UCAS hasn’t published the exact formula (it’s their secret sauce), but based on official statements and data, here’s what happens under the hood:
1. Eligibility Check
The system first determines whether you’re in Clearing. You’ll see a “See Matches” button in your UCAS Hub if:
- You’re eligible for Clearing (no firm/insurance place, or you’ve released yourself)
- You’ve met certain profile completeness requirements
2. Data Analysis of Your Application
The algorithm examines:
- Your grades and qualifications
- Your course preferences from your original application
- Subjects you applied for previously
- Your personal statement keywords
- Similar applicants’ past success rates
3. Matching to Available Courses
It cross-references your profile with live course vacancies provided by universities.
Factors include:
- Entry requirements vs your actual results
- Subject match
- University recruitment needs
- Historical data (e.g., students with your profile accepted in past years)
4. Creating Your Personal Match List
You’ll see a curated list in UCAS Hub under “Your Matches.” This is not exhaustive—it’s a targeted selection.
5. Expressing Interest
You can click to send your profile directly to a university.
- This doesn’t guarantee an offer—it simply alerts them that you’re interested.
- They may call or email you to discuss an application.
✅ How to Opt In to Clearing Plus
Clearing Plus is opt-in only—you won’t be matched automatically unless you agree.
Step-by-Step Opt-In Process:
- Log in to UCAS Hub once Clearing opens (5 July 2025).
- If eligible, you’ll see a “See Matches” or “Find Courses” button in your dashboard.
- Click the button to review your matches.
- Read the terms explaining that your data will be shared with universities when you click “I’m Interested.”
- Browse your personalised list.
- Click “I’m Interested” on any course you want to pursue.
- Wait for the university to contact you, or call them directly to follow up.
💡 Strategies to Maximise Your Clearing Plus Matches
Clearing Plus is only as powerful as the data you give it. Here’s how to improve your odds:
1. Refine Your UCAS Hub Profile Before Opting In
- Update your personal statement if it’s too general.
- Make sure your qualifications are entered exactly as on your results slip.
- Add any extra qualifications (EPQ, language certificates, short courses).
2. Understand Your Likely Matches
Clearing Plus is conservative—it suggests courses you have a strong chance of getting.
- If you’re aiming higher than your grades suggest, you’ll need to call universities directly in addition to using Clearing Plus.
3. Use It Early in the Day
Matches can shift rapidly as universities update vacancies. Checking at 9:00 am, then again at midday and 4:00 pm, ensures you see new openings before they fill.
4. Combine with Direct Calls
Don’t just wait for universities to contact you—once you’ve clicked “I’m Interested,” phone them to show initiative.
5. Express Interest in Multiple Courses
There’s no penalty for showing interest in several matches. Just ensure they’re genuinely ones you’d accept if offered.
6. Watch for “Enhanced Clearing Plus” Offers
Some universities use Enhanced Clearing Plus, where they actively email or call you after you match. If you get such contact, respond quickly—these places can go within hours.
📊 Clearing Plus vs Traditional Clearing
Factor Clearing Plus Traditional Clearing Speed Immediate tailored matches Requires manual searching Personalisation High – based on your data Low – you filter yourself Proactivity Semi-passive – wait for contact Fully proactive – you call Scope Limited to algorithm suggestions Any university/course in UCAS list Best for Strong matches within your grade range Stretch choices, unusual courses
RevisionDojo Tip: Use both. Clearing Plus is great for quick wins; traditional Clearing can land you ambitious offers if you’re persuasive.
🚫 Common Mistakes Students Make in Clearing Plus
- Assuming matches = guaranteed offers
They’re just suggestions. Always confirm vacancies directly. - Not checking traditional Clearing lists
Some universities opt out of Clearing Plus. - Ignoring “fit”
Accepting the first match without considering modules, location, or campus life can lead to regret. - Waiting for the university to call
Proactivity wins in Clearing—follow up your “I’m Interested” clicks with a phone call. - Using a vague personal statement
Tailoring your statement improves match quality.
🧭 Example Clearing Plus Journey
Case Study – Ella, 2024 Applicant:
- Applied for Psychology at high-tariff unis. Missed her grades slightly.
- Opted in to Clearing Plus at 9:10 am on results day.
- Matched with five courses, including one she hadn’t considered.
- Clicked “I’m Interested” for her top two matches, then called both.
- Received a verbal offer from her first choice by 11:30 am.
📌 FAQs on UCAS Clearing Plus
1. Do all universities use Clearing Plus?
No—some prefer to manage Clearing directly, so check the UCAS vacancy search too.
2. Can I change my mind after clicking “I’m Interested”?
Yes—clicking simply shares your interest; you’re not committing until you add the choice in UCAS Hub.
3. Is it worth using if my grades are higher than expected?
Yes, but also check Adjustment or call universities directly for more competitive offers.
4. Can I use Clearing Plus outside the UK?
Yes—international students can use it, but matches are based on UK eligibility rules.
5. How quickly do I need to act on matches?
As soon as possible—places can fill within hours, especially in popular subjects.
🎯 Final RevisionDojo Advice
Clearing Plus is not a replacement for your own research—it’s a shortcut. The best Clearing strategies combine:
- A Clearing Plus match list you act on immediately
- Direct calls to target universities (even those not in your matches)
- Proactive email follow-ups
- Prepared documents (results, UCAS ID, personal statement, reference)
When used properly, Clearing Plus can take you from results shock to a confirmed university place in just a few hours.
