Clearing is the annual process where universities and colleges seek to fill any remaining spaces they still have on courses — and it's fast becoming one of the most popular ways for students to grab their places.
Many students wait until Clearing before applying to university because they may have changed their mind about what course to study or where to go; they might have missed the initial UCAS application deadline; or they want to upgrade after gaining better results than expected.
Whatever the reason, SoGlos rounds up 11 of the most important things to consider if you're vying for an undergraduate place through Clearing this summer 2025.
Why should I apply for a place through Clearing?
Clearing is often the final opportunity to follow your study plans and find a place on an undergraduate course at college or university.
If you were late submitting your application to university through UCAS or perhaps did not achieve the grades you needed to receive a conditional offer on your preferred course, then UCAS Clearing is an opportunity to quickly adjust your plans and obtain a place.
Make a note of Clearing dates
Clearing usually begins in July, ahead of prospective students receiving their results, and stays open for as long as there are places — often up until October for some courses.
University of Gloucestershire's Clearing VIP service sends students regular email updates and reminders at each stage of the process, so you don't have to stress over remembering dates.
Get early bird offers when you sign up for Clearing VIP
The Clearing VIP service at University of Gloucestershire includes early-bird offers; a results day SMS; a call-back to skip the clearing day queues; regular clearing information emails; and more.
Students will even be entered into a competition to win a year's free accommodation at the university's Pittville Campus and one of 10 Stagecoach bus passes.
Have your UCAS ID to hand when you contact the Clearing hotline
It sounds obvious, but one of the first and most important details you'll need to recite over the phone will be your UCAS ID! So, if you have already applied through UCAS, have this to hand before calling the Clearing hotline. If you haven't already applied through UCAS, then you won't have one.
Provide parents with permission to discuss your application, if needed
If students would like their parents or guardians to be involved on results day, make sure you have provided UCAS or your chosen institutions with permission to discuss this with them, or they won't be able to help on your behalf.
This needs to be nominated on your UCAS form beforehand. Parents and guardians can, however, get help with any general queries they may have about university, the application process or Clearing.
Do some research first
As there are a limited number of places available for prospective students during Clearing, there may be competition for places — this is especially the case at popular colleges and universities where the demand is high.
A full list of which courses and institutions have spaces will be on the UCAS website or, if you know where you would like to study, then the university website of your chosen institution will likely publish its own list of vacancies.
Before the day, create a shortlist of universities and a list of courses you're interested in that still have places.
Charge your phone for results day
Another obvious but very important tip... make sure your phone is well charged! You don’t want to lose your place in a queue or have the call disconnected right before a university makes you an offer.
Guaranteed accommodation if applying through Clearing
There’s no need to worry about accommodation if you're applying for university during Clearing.
University of Gloucestershire guarantees you a place in halls, on or near to the campus you’re studying at, if you accept a place through Clearing.
Can I change my mind during Clearing?
Of course! You don’t have to stick with the original course or university that you chose when you first made your application. You're free to look at any of the places available at any university or college.
Clearing can be really helpful for students who have changed their mind about what course they want to study or where they want to study.
You just need to make sure that you decline any offers you might have had before you can enquire about a new place at a different institution through Clearing — but don't panic about doing this. The Clearing staff will give you advice on this on the day.
Check your UCAS Hub for offers
On results day, if you've already applied through UCAS, log on to the UCAS Hub and check your account for offers and acceptances. You might have offers even if your results weren't what you were expecting.
And finally, don't feel rushed or pressured to accept anything!
Results day and Clearing can be an anxious time for young people, with so many options to consider in a short space of time.
It’s important to make sure that you think about everything in detail and do your research. But remember: you aren't on your own, there's always someone at the end of the phone ready to help and you can always change your mind!
