Not sure how to navigate the Clearing process? Let's make it simple.
Are you ready to take the next step in your educational journey but missed out on your first choice? Or perhaps you're a working professional considering a return to education? Clearing offers a fantastic second chance to secure a place on a degree that aligns with your goals.
Discover a step by step guide for applying through Clearing. We'll walk you through every critical step – from preparation and research to making those important calls and finalising your place through UCAS Track or directly with your chosen degree provider. Ready to go through Clearing and secure your place?
Applying through Clearing step by step
Knowing exactly what to do during each stage of the Clearing process can make each stage a lot more manageable – saving you time and stress. Below we've listed each stage in detail so you can navigate Clearing confidently.
Step 1: Prepare for Clearing
Understand Clearing
Familiarise yourself with the Clearing process so you know what to expect.
Note key dates
Be aware of when Clearing opens and closes. These dates are crucial for planning your application timeline. This year, Clearing is open between 5 July and 21 October 2024, and A level Results Day takes place on 15 August.
Gather information
Have your UCAS ID, personal statement, exam results, and other relevant documents ready. Organise these documents so they’re easily accessible.
List courses of interest
Research and make a list of courses you’re interested in and eligible for. Doing your research in advance gives you time to explore the curriculum, see what current students are saying, and understand what the entry requirements are.
Step 2: Make the first steps
Check your status
Log into your UCAS hub to see if you’re eligible for Clearing. If you’re eligible, you’ll have a UCAS Clearing number prominently displayed on your dashboard.
Prepare a script
Write a brief script of what you’ll say when contacting admissions teams, including why you’re interested in the course and any questions you have.
Step 3: Research opportunities
Degree provider websites
Visit degree provider and university websites to check Clearing vacancies. Ensure the course content, study mode, cost location, and other factors match your preferences.
Rank your preferences
Prioritise your course choices based on interest and suitability. Knowing what you want from your Clearing course can help you make a decision when degree providers make you an offer of a firm place.
Make a note of contact information
Note down contact details and opening times for the Clearing hotlines of the degree providers you’re interested in. Having these details at hand will save you time and effort on Results Day – and put you ahead of other students trying to contact degree providers on the day.
Step 4: Check for Clearing matches
Using UCAS Clearing Plus
If you’ve registered your interests in your UCAS hub, you can use UCAS Clearing Plus to see matches that align with your qualifications and preferences. This feature simplifies your search by highlighting unfilled places on Clearing courses. It can also extend your opportunities, by showing alternative courses you might not have considered.
Step 5: Contact degree providers
Make the Clearing phone call
Call universities you’re interested in as soon as possible. Have your Clearing number, UCAS ID, and exam results handy. Be quick but thorough in your communication.
Make your introductions
Introduce yourself clearly, state your qualifications, and explain why you’re interested in their course. Having your information to hand can help calm your nerves - but don't worry if you're a bit nervous.
Take notes
Write down important details from each call, including details that do or don't match with what you're looking for in your perfect course. If they make you an offer, you'll want to be able to compare these details to make your final decisions.
Step 6: Evaluate offers
Compare your offers
Compare the offers you receive based on course content, affordability, location, study mode, and other personal preferences.
Ask for advice
Discuss your options with a teacher, career advisor, or family members to get their input. Their perspective can be invaluable in deciding on the perfect course for your goals.
Step 7: Making a decision
Accept an offer
Once you’ve decided on a course, you can verbally accept an offer over the phone. The degree provider will then confirm your offer via email.
Step 8: Final steps
Confirm your acceptance
The degree provider will confirm your place, either in UCAS Track or by email if you're applying directly.
Apply for accommodation
If you've chosen an on-campus course, apply for your accommodation as soon as your place is confirmed. Contact the university’s accommodation office for guidance.
Update student finance
Update your student finance application with your new degree provider and course details. This ensures your funding is correctly allocated.
Step 9: After Clearing
Prepare for your course
Buy necessary supplies and complete any pre-course assignments. This helps you start smoothly and confidently. If you choose an online degree, remember all of your materials will be available online once you start.
Stay informed
Keep an eye on emails from your new degree provider for important information about your enrolment and induction period.
Additional Clearing tips
Be persistent
If you can't contact a degree provider immediately, keep trying and don't give up.
Stay positive
Keep a positive mindset and remain flexible and positive with your options.
Stay organised
Keep all your documents and notes in one place for easy access whenever you need them.
Can you apply through Clearing without UCAS?
During Clearing, many universities and degree providers welcome students applying directly – which can be especially useful if you're a late applicant, or if you missed the deadline to submit an initial UCAS application.
At LIBF, you can apply directly through our online application. Find out more about how to apply to us online.
You’ll find everything you need to know about studying an online degree with us in our digital prospectus. To receive your personalised prospectus, please fill out the form below with a valid email address.
Once you've submitted the form, keep an eye on your inbox for your prospectus to arrive via email.
Can you apply for Clearing before results day?
While official Clearing doesn't open until results are released, there's plenty you can do to prepare. Start by researching courses and degree providers that interest you. Prepare all necessary documents like your grades, personal statement, and identification, so you don't waste time collecting everything you need at the last minute.
How long does Clearing take?
Clearing can be a fast process, and if you join Clearing on A level Results Day, you might find everything happens quicker than you could imagine. The initial stages of researching other courses and contacting degree providers can happen within a few hours of getting your grades. Then, once you've spoken to a few providers and feel like you have the best Clearing choice, securing your offer and formalising your acceptance through UCAS Track (or by applying directly) might take a couple of days.
To make the process as smooth as possible, stay organise, positive and proactive. If you do, you might find you're able to wrap everything up within 24 hours.
Applying through Clearing as a mature student
Clearing is a fantastic opportunity for mature students to step back into education, change careers, or upskill. Be ready to highlight how your unique background makes you an ideal candidate and contact degree providers directly to discuss your interests and any relevant professional experience.
Many institutions appreciate the diverse perspectives mature students bring to their courses, so don't let your age or previous educational pathway deter you – and remember Clearing is about finding the right fit for you now.
To help you find the perfect fit, explore our article on the best degrees for older adults.
How to skip Clearing with LIBF
Ready to join LIBF and embark on a journey toward a fulfilling career? During Clearing, we simplify things by accepting direct entry applications only. Here’s how to apply:
Explore our degrees: explore our undergraduate degrees or master's courses and find your perfect match
Apply direct: fill in the course application form online, in just a few minutes.
Get personalised support: our admissions team will review your application and reach out to discuss your next steps, making the process smooth and straightforward.
Your future is within reach – apply today and start your inspiring journey with LIBF.
Apply todayFrequently asked questions about Clearing
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