As Clearing approaches, it is key to get as prepared as possible. If you have changed your mind about your course and wish to look for a new course in Clearing, knowing how Clearing works will make the process easier. Make sure you are well prepared for all eventualities beforehand and read below for some Frequently Asked Questions regarding the Clearing process to clear up any confusion or questions you may have.
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Check if you have a place at university first. On results day always check UCAS Track, which will refresh as soon as updates are received from universities. Even if you haven’t gotten the required grades, you should always check UCAS Track first as you may still be offered a place.
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Know if you have entered Clearing with UCAS Track. If you are in Clearing, it will clearly state either: “Clearing has started” or “You are in Clearing”. Just because you have not received the required grades, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you are in Clearing. If your UCAS does not say that you are in Clearing, it may mean that your university is still considering your application.
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You can release yourself into clearing if you decide you no longer want to go to your insurance university. You now do not need to wait for them to release you into Clearing. You will be able to self-release into Clearing, which will save you valuable minutes in the Clearing process.
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Look into different Clearing courses to find the best course for you. You could receive multiple verbal offers from Universities through Clearing and they may give you a deadline for you to confirm this offer. However you will only be able to add one Clearing choice at a time to Track. Take your time to make your decision.
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Clearing Hotlines will require patience - hang in there! Unfortunately, Clearing hotlines will be very busy as there is a huge demand on the day results are released. Try to stay patient, and be prepared to wait. Some universities also have Clearing contact options via social media such as Twitter, Snapchat and WhatsApp, so see if there are any other contact options. Calling the university will always be the most direct route - so it is worth hanging in there and waiting!
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If you have already applied for your student loan and have changed your university or even just your course of study, you will need to update your details as soon as you have confirmed your clearing choice.
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If you haven’t applied for your student loan yet - then you will need to do this as soon as possible. The deadline for students to apply will have passed but the student loans company will still process your application. Since you will be applying late there is a chance you may not receive your funding in time for your first few weeks of term. It is therefore important to budget for this delay to ensure you have enough money to make it through Freshers!
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You do not need to rewrite your personal statement. Your original personal statement will have all of the necessary information. If you have more experience you wish to add, then it is worth mentioning this to the university when discussing your Clearing options over the phone.
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Locate your Clearing number on your UCAS Track. This number will only appear if you are eligible for Clearing, so if you don’t have a Clearing number, you may not be eligible for Clearing.
Find Out More:
Browse through our Clearing Directory to find the contact details for universities around the UK.
