Clearing opens on 5 July until 21 September. To help get your future off to a great start, we’re here with the answers to those all important Clearing questions and get you prepared.
By Elsa Tatam. Published 28 June 2023.
What is Clearing and how do I apply?
Clearing is how universities and colleges fill any places they still have on their undergraduate courses. During the Clearing window, applicants can apply for a course using Clearing if they are not already holding an offer from a university or college, and the course still has places. Make sure to check out our Clearing FAQs to find out if you can apply through Clearing and what you need to have to hand before calling one of our helpful Clearing gurus.
If you are applying for the first time, you’ll need to register and make a full application including your personal statement. When you submit your application, you’ll receive a welcome email to access your UCAS Hub, where you will also receive your Clearing number. That’s when you can access Clearing’s services, including searching ‘my course subject’ or ‘location’.
Online tools to help you with Clearing
When preparing for Clearing, there are a number of online tools that will make your application through Clearing easier than ever.
On the UCAS website the search function is comprehensive, giving you access to information and advice; you can access this search tool from the UCAS homepage. The site is mobile-friendly, meaning that you can access Clearing from any of your devices. You can sign onto the site, save your searches and shortlist your favourite courses, as well as naming those searches to save time when logging back in to continue looking for that dream course.
However, if you were unsuccessful with your university application or are applying for the first time for a place through Clearing, you can also use UCAS Clearing Plus. Through Clearing Plus, UCAS will look at your original course choices, alongside your qualifications and grades and compare them to the courses available. Their team then matches your profile to the courses that could be perfect for you.
What do I need to prepare before A-Level Results day?
Whether you have come through Clearing because you’re applying late, have changed your mind about what or where you'd like to study or missed out on the requirements of a conditional offer, we will be there to help every step of the way. However, the day you get you’re A-Level results is a hive of activity, especially if you’re considering your options through Clearing, so it’s a good idea to do some prep work beforehand.
When preparing to come through Clearing, it is important to be proactive but to also remember to not rush into anything. Doing your research is essential. Find out as much relevant information as possible about all our campuses and courses so you make the best decision for your future career.
Have your UCAS number ready and make a note of the phone numbers you will need once you have your results. It may feel a bit overwhelming on the day, so if you can have everything in front of you ahead of time, it will make all the difference.
How do I organise my accommodation?
Even if you join us through Clearing, we will provide support to help you find suitable accommodation near your chosen campus ensuring you have a safe, comfortable place to live while you’re studying at The University of Law or our Business School. Our team will also support you by providing useful information about the area, advice on private accommodation and you will have access to StudentPad which allows you to search for the perfect student accommodation in your chosen area.
How do I prepare my Student Finance?
If you’ve already gone through the Student Finance process, then you need to let them know of your change in circumstances when you go through Clearing. They’ll assess your application and inform you of any changes as quickly as they can.
If you haven’t applied for student finance yet, and would like to, you need to do so as soon as possible..
Applications take six weeks to be processed, so you might not get all your money straight away, but Student Finance will endeavour to provide initial funding as close to your course start date as possible.
You can get more information on Student Finance.
What if I want to look around the Campus ahead of Clearing?
We would love to see you and we're always running Open Days and site visits; these are a great way to find out more about each of our programmes and give you a feel for what it’s like to study with us.
To arrange a visit, please see our events.
Remember, the most important thing when it comes to preparing to go through Clearing is to stay calm.. One of our LLB students Amelia Cooper opted to go through Clearing, and when talking about the process she said: “Take a deep breath and everything will work out. Everything happens for a reason and in fact, I am so glad I moved away from home and came to The University of Law over my original choice of university. Speak to as many admissions teams at as many universities or campuses as you feel you need to. There are so many people in your shoes at the same time. Do not worry about the small things, for example accommodation, just be proactive. Make the contact, see what is on offer and then make your choice.”
Whether you’re an A Level graduate or current student, parent, teacher or partner, if you’ve got a question about Clearing, we’re happy to help. To help you get your head around everything that is Clearing, check out our Clearing Hub or call 0808 3019834.
