Universities use Clearing as a means of filling any places remaining on their courses, so if you have not managed to find a suitable course or secure admission to uni yet for 2025/26, discover what you need to do to apply for UCAS clearing.
Some people might think that you can only apply through Clearing if you haven’t met the grade requirements of a conditional offer from a university. While it’s true that many people who don’t receive the grades they expect secure an alternative place through Clearing, it can be a good option for those in different situations too.
In this article, we’ll share everything you need to know about clearing while stating how it benefits you; carefully read through.
What is UCAS Clearing?
Clearing is a process used by UK institutions to fill any unfilled spaces on their courses following the first application rounds. It gives students who did not receive an offer from their preferred universities or applied late a second chance to gain a seat at university.
This approach is especially essential for students who have received unexpected exam results because it allows them to swiftly identify alternate possibilities.
Clearing is conducted through the UCAS system and takes place throughout the summer months after exam results are released. Clearing helps thousands of students each year choose university courses in a variety of topics.
When Does UCAS Clearing Commence?
Clearing often opens in early July, just after the final application deadlines. The next opening date for Clearing is July 5, 2025.
However, the key period for clearing is in mid-August, when the A-level results are released. The exact dates vary slightly from year to year, but A-level results day usually marks the start of the busiest clearing activity, as many students begin looking for new courses.
The next A-level results day is August 14th, 2025.
When To Use UCAS Clearing
UCAS Clearing gives students a second chance to get into university by pairing those who wish to go to universities that have open spots.
You can use Clearing if you:
- Didn’t get into your firm (CF) or insurance (CI) choice universities.
- Didn’t get any offers when you first applied.
- Are applying after 30 June.
- Don’t want the places you’ve been offered and use self-release to enter Clearing.
- You were unsure about the university during the first round of applications and didn’t apply.
- Better opportunities or courses in different universities.
- Flexible options for foundation or access courses.
Alternatively, if your grades are higher than expected, you may be able to get into a different degree at an institution with higher entry requirements.
Clearing might also be handy if you have changed your mind about the course you first applied for and want to pursue a new one.
SEE ALSO: How To Choose A UK University As An International Student
How Does Clearing Work?
Clearing is designed to be a straightforward process, allowing students to browse available university courses and apply for those with vacancies. Here’s how it works:
- Check eligibility: Students become eligible for clearing if they have not met the conditions of their university offers, declined their firm or insurance choices, or they didn’t receive any offers in the first place.
- Browse courses: Once in the clearing, students can search for available courses using the UCAS search tool or individual university websites. Many universities list vacancies across a wide range of subjects, including some highly competitive courses.
- Contact universities: After identifying a course, students can contact the university directly, either by phone or through online systems. This allows them to discuss their qualifications and express interest in the course.
- Receive offers: If the university is interested, they may offer the student a place. It’s essential to consider offers carefully, ensuring the course and location are the right fit.
- Accepting an offer: Once an offer has been made and the student accepts it, they can add the choice on UCAS to confirm their place.
A clear example of how clearing works:
Tom applied to study chemistry at his top-picked university. However, he received no offers due to the exceedingly competitive entry standards. Tom utilized the UCAS Clearing search engine to look into possible courses following A-level Results Day. He was drawn to a different university’s Business and Entrepreneurship program for its emphasis on start-up culture and hands-on learning.
Tom promptly contacted the institution to express his interest, and after discussing his qualifications, they gave him a position. The course proved to be an excellent fit, and Tom is currently prospering in his studies. Tom was able to acquire a course that matched his goals by responding quickly during the clearing process and remaining open to new choices.
UCAS Clearing Courses
Clearing courses span a wide range of areas, including business, engineering, arts, and social sciences. UCAS has a clearing search engine that allows students to look for vacancies in specific topics, universities, or areas.
The availability of courses in clearing can fluctuate frequently, especially for popular subjects, so act promptly when a course that suits your interests becomes available. Universities may provide spots on both undergraduate and foundation courses, depending on the subject and enrollment requirements.
It’s also worth noting that some courses may have additional requirements, such as portfolios or interviews, even during the clearing process.
Use UCAS search tool to find courses—it’s the only official vacancy list, so it’s the most up-to-date.
What Should I Do If I Can’t Find The Course I Am Looking For?
If you can’t find the course you’re looking for:
- Consider different subjects: You do not have to keep to your initial notion. You might also look at dual honors courses so you can study a variety of disciplines.
- Keep checking: Universities regularly update their course information. You may not find the exact universities/colleges/courses you are looking for—some may be filled, while others may become available later on.
- Check the course details to find out how it is structured each year. What modules make up each year? What are the entry requirements?
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How to add Your Clearing Choice on the UCAS Application
Once you’ve received an offer from a university through clearing and you’ve decided to accept it, you need to officially add the choice on UCAS. The process is simple:
- Log in to your UCAS account.
- Find the ‘Your choices’ section: There, you will see the option to ‘Add Clearing choice.’ You can only add one choice at a time
- Enter the course details: You’ll need to provide the course code, institution name, and any other relevant information from the offer you’ve received.
- Submit your clearing choice: Once you’ve submitted the form, UCAS will confirm with the university that you’ve accepted their offer.
For more detailed guidance, UCAS provides step-by-step instructions on the official website.
Clearing open days
Many universities host open days where Clearing applicants (and their parents and caregivers) can see the campus, see the facilities, and speak with staff and students.
Even if there is no official occasion to visit, you can still call the university and arrange to view the campus before making a firm commitment. As long as there isn’t too much time between receiving an offer and visiting, a university will usually keep the offer of a place open.
FAQs On UCAS Clearing
UCAS Clearing is a system that helps students without university offers find available courses. It is primarily used by those who didn’t meet their conditional offers, applied late, or changed their minds about their chosen universities.
UCAS provides a Clearing search tool on its website, which updates regularly with course vacancies. You can also check university websites or contact admissions offices.
Yes, international students can use Clearing to find available courses. It’s essential to check visa requirements and accommodation options before accepting a place.
Conclusion
Clearing is an effective tool for students seeking alternative university options following results day or who apply later in the academic cycle. Students can take control of their future by learning how clearing works, when it opens, and how to use the UCAS system. Check the UCAS clearance site on a regular basis for the most up-to-date course vacancy information.
References
- ucas.com – What Is Clearing
