A Guide to Clearing

With A Level, IB and BTEC results pending, we want to give you some key information on what happens during clearing. Below you’ll find some FAQ and our answers to help guide you this summer.

Who can use clearing?

To be eligible for clearing, you need to meet at least one of the criteria below;

  • you’re applying after 30 June
  • you didn’t receive any offers (or none you wanted to accept)
  • you didn’t meet the conditions of your offers
  • you’ve declined your firm place using the ‘decline my place’ button in Track

How do I know what courses or Universities are included in Clearing?

You can search for a University and course vacancies by using the UCAS search tool by clicking here.

The course I wanted to do is not available at any University. What do I do?

Keep checking the UCAS search tool as Universities add courses on a daily and weekly basis. Try also searching for subjects around your current choice, for example you want to study English Language, try creative writing or Journalism

I’ve found a course and/or University that I wasn’t to apply to, what do I do now?

Phone the University or college and give them your clearing number (you will find this in your track application). Ask them if they would accept you and tell them why you really want to come to their University and why you want to do that course (tip; tell them your future career plan or what you intend to do with your qualification).

I’ve been accepted, now what?

The University will be able to advise you what happens next. Usually, however, the University or College will give you permission to add them as your clearing choice on Track. When you have their permission, add them as soon as possible to your Track.

Do I have to pay for clearing?

If you applied for more than one University and paid the full amount, you won’t need to pay for clearing. However, if you only applied to one University or have yet to apply you will need to pay the standard UCAS fee.

To find out more information, use the UCAS Clearing website by clicking here and contact UCAS via their social media or phone to answer any of your questions.

The P&E Team will be available on A Level results day to answer your questions and offer you support.