Your guide to Clearing 2024
Results day is here and we know it can feel weird sometimes. Whether you've smashed it or things haven't quite gone as expected, knowing you're about to take that next big thing can feel...big.
If your uni plans are changing and you're going through Clearing, we wanted to make things easier for you. Here's everything you need to know about getting through Results Day and setting yourself up for next year.
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 re-framing next year and having a little change up.
Who can use Clearing?
Clearing is for students that might not have gotten the results they needed for their firm or insurance choice. Clearing is also open 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. Loads of great unis have spaces open for Clearing, so it can also be a great chance to find a course or uni that's better for you and your results.
Clearing has places for a wide range of students and results. Top universities offering places through Clearing this year include the University of Edinburgh, the University of Warwick and the University of York.
What if my results are better than expected?
If your results are better than expected, you can try to get into a different course or university. You’ll have the option on UCAS to “decline my place” and choose a new course or uni through Clearing.
When does Clearing start?
Clearing always opens in early July, but usually things really kick off on Results Day.
This year, Clearing is open from 5th July until 21st October 2024. Results day is on 15th August.
Will I be able to find student accommodation if I go through Clearing?
Some students worry that they'll struggle to find student accommodation in time if they go through Clearing. If you change uni, you’ll still be able to find great accommodation options, especially if you go with a large student accommodation provider. 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
Sometimes it can help to be prepared for all scenarios. If you felt like your exams went really well or you didn't quite perform as you'd liked to, you can prepare for Clearing ahead of time.
Start looking at unis and courses you might be interested in online through UCAS Clearing from 5th July
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
Have a think about why you might not have got the grades you needed - interviewers sometimes ask this
Handling Clearing on results day
It's easy to feel a little all over the place on Results Day, especially if you're going through Clearing. Here are a few tips and key steps to help you stay calm.
Check your UCAS Hub as soon as you get up in the morning to manage your expectations
Have your details ready for when you call unis, including your UCAS number, Clearing number, GCSE grades and A-levels
Plan a quiet space for making calls once you get your results
Ask your school or college for some advice if you’re still unsure or need support
Check Clearing on the day to see which universities have lowered their entry requirements
Call the universities you’re interested in and put your best self forward
Consider each of the offers you receive and make your final choice with confidence
