Clearing can feel like a whirlwind, but itâs also a great opportunity! Whether you have changed your mind about your course, perhaps didnât get the results you were hoping for, or are applying a little later in the game, Clearing helps you find a university place thatâs right for you.
Hereâs everything you need to know about how Clearing works, how to stay calm as you explore your options, and what to do next.
đ§ What Is Clearing?
Clearing is the part of the UCAS system that helps students find and apply for university courses after main offers have been made. You can use Clearing if:
You didnât get the grades you needed for your firm or insurance choice
Youâve changed your mind and want to apply somewhere else
You didnât receive any offers (or no offers that you wanted to accept)
You declined your firm place, using the 'Decline my Place' button
Youâre applying for university after 30 June
Clearing runs from early July to mid-October, but most activity happens on or just after results day (usually in mid August). For the 2025 intake, you can apply via Clearing from 5 July until 20 October. This year, A Level results day is on Thursday 14 August, and SQA results day is on Tuesday 5 August.
đ§ How to Use Clearing â Step by Step
1. Check if You're Eligible
Log into the UCAS Hub to see if you're in Clearing. If you are, you'll see a 'Clearing number' under Application Status, on your application.
2. Start Exploring Courses
Visit the UCAS website or university websites to browse available Clearing places. You can also use Unibuddy to:
Chat to student ambassadors about what the course and uni are really like
Ask about accommodation, campus life, and support
Get honest advice from people whoâve been in your shoes
3. Contact Universities Directly
Found a course you like? Get in touch with the university as soon as you can. Many have dedicated Clearing phone lines or live chats. Be ready with:
Your UCAS ID and Clearing number
Your grades
A few reasons why you're interested in the course
You might get a verbal offer on the spot!
4. Add Your Choice on UCAS
Once you've accepted an offer, log into your UCAS Hub and add it as your Clearing choice. To do this, you should go to the âYour choicesâ section of your application and click 'Add Clearing choice.â
Only do this once you're sure, as that uni then becomes your official choice.
đ Applying through Clearing on Results Day
If you're applying through Clearing on results day, you can add a Clearing choice in your UCAS Hub from (UK times):
10:00 on 5 August (SQA results day)
13:00 on 14 August (A level results day)
đĄ Top Tips for Clearing Success
Act quickly, but donât panic. Places may seem to go fast, but thereâs still time to make the right decision.
Be open-minded - look at similar courses, different locations, or academic directions you hadnât considered.
Do your research - check course content, location, insights on student life, and accommodation.
Talk to students on Unibuddy, at open days, or on social media - get the inside scoop before committing.
Ask for help - teachers, admissions advisers, or university staff are there to support you.
đ§ââď¸ Feeling Overwhelmed? Thatâs Normal
Clearing can feel stressful, especially if things didnât go to plan. Remember:
Youâre not alone - thousands of students go through Clearing every year.
It doesnât define your success - many students find the perfect course because of Clearing.
Itâs okay to take a breather - Clear your head, talk it out, and then move forward.
đ Need Help?
Check out the UCAS Clearing Hub or contact your chosen universityâs Clearing team.
You can also use Unibuddy to chat to student ambassadors and staff from universities you're interested in; ask anything from âWhatâs the course like?â to âWill I still get into halls?â
â Youâve Got This
Clearing is a fresh opportunity to take control of your future. Be curious, ask questions, and donât rush. The right course is out there for you!