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Clearing tips

Get ahead of the game.

Considering applying in Clearing?

It's worth getting a head start with some Clearing prep.

To help you get organised, here are some tips from our expert staff and students who joined us through Clearing.

Student leaning against a wall smiling

Be prepared

Make a realistic course wishlist - think about courses and universities you might like to apply to if you're considering using Clearing.

Check your options - take a look at which courses have places available. You can check our Clearing courses (from 5 July 2025) or visit the UCAS website.

Find your fit - what do you want from your university and course? Are you hoping to study abroad, do a placement year, or join a student society? Do you want to stay near home or move away? What career paths could your course lead to?

Student sitting behind their laptop and smiling.

Keep calm

Talk to your friends and family - they're here to support you and can offer fresh perspectives and ideas.

Do something you love - hobbies, activities and exercise are great distractions.

Make plans - head out for food or to a movie with your friends and family the night before Results Day to take your mind off it.

Three students sat on a sofa and chatting with each other.

Get organised

When you're ready to call our Clearing helpline or apply online, you'll need to give us:

  • details of your qualifications and results
  • your address, phone number and email address
  • your UCAS personal ID number

You'll need to take notes - have a pad and pen, tablet or laptop with you during your call.

Be flexible - you might be focused on a particular course, but you could consider alternative courses that are related to what you want to study.

Be independent - most universities will not let your parents or anyone else speak to them on your behalf.

Take a look around - see if you can visit the universities you're considering. Our Clearing Open Day will take place on Saturday, 16 August 2025.

A foam UCAS hand with pointing finger

Explore all the options

If you have done better or worse than you expected or have changed your mind, you have plenty of other opportunities.

A popular choice is to study a Foundation Year courses with lower entry tariffs.

These one-year courses give you the boost you need to progress onto an undergraduate course. They also build your confidence and help you adapt to university life.

You'll be able to progress onto one of our undergraduate degrees by successfully completing the foundation pathway that matches your ambitions.

Two students at an Open Day, looking through a Miniguide.

Clearing tips from our students

Many of our undergraduate students joined us through Clearing.

Each of them has their own unique story. Explore their experiences in this selection of student blogs. You'll pick up tips and advice on dealing with Results Day and Clearing.

Make a Clearing enquiry

Clearing opens on 5 July 2025.

Get prepared now - ask us your questions and we'll do our best to help.