What you need to know about Clearing 2023

Plans changed? Not a problem. Clearing can help you find the right university course for you and your results. We know that the time around getting your results can be a little stressful, so we’ve built a little guide to everything you need to know about Clearing.  

What is Clearing? 

Clearing is a way for universities to fill any spaces, and for students to grab a place on a course if they’re not headed to their first or second choice. Applying through Clearing isn’t a bad thing. You’re just exploring something new. And there will be plenty of great options at top universities out there.  

Who is Clearing for? 

Clearing is open for students that might not have gotten the results they needed for their firm or insurance choice. Clearing is also available to students that didn’t get any offers, didn’t apply in time for the UCAS deadline or even for students that just want to look for a different uni or course.  

Clearing has places for a wide range of students and results. Top universities are offering places through Clearing this year, including the University of Bath, the University of Warwick and the University of York.  

What if my results are better than expected? 

Until 2022, you’d be able to go through “adjustment” if our results exceeded your expectations. Now, if your results are better than expected and you want to try to get into a different course or university, you’ll have the option to “decline my place” in UCAS and choose a new course or uni through Clearing.  

When does Clearing start? 

Clearing always opens in early July, but most applications are put through on results day.  

This year, Clearing is open from 5th July until 17th October 2023. Results day is on 17th August.  

What does Clearing mean for student accommodation? 

If you change uni, you’ll still be able to find great accommodation options. At iQ, we’ve got over 70 sites across 29 UK towns and cities, so there’s space even when it comes to August. You might need to be quick to grab a final space, but online search and bookings mean you can secure your spot in no time.  

How to prepare for Clearing 

If you’re not confident you’ve got the results you needed for your course there are a few things you can do to prepare for results day. 

• Start looking at universities and courses you might be interested in from 5th July on UCAS Clearing 

• Take another look at your personal statement – universities will look at this when you’re going through Clearing  

• Prepare for a mini interview, thinking about why you’ll want to apply for a certain uni or course and what makes you suitable for getting your place – you may even be asked why you think you didn’t get the grades you needed 

How to handle Clearing on results day 

Clearing can feel a little hectic if you’re not prepared, so having some key steps in mind can help you to relax.  

• Try to check your UCAS Hub as soon as you get up in the morning so you know how to prepare yourself 

• Have your details handy, including your UCAS number, Clearing number, GCSE grades and A-levels for when you call universities 

• Plan a quiet space for making calls – you won’t want to do this in the middle of a busy hall  

• Once you get your results, talk to your school or college – they might be able to give you advice if you’re still unsure, or could help settle any nerves 

• Check Clearing again to see which universities have lowered their entry requirements 

• Call the universities you’re interested in and do your best to stay calm and show off who you are 

• Make your final choice from the offers you receive