Clearing: How to find a university place

University Clearing has a reputation problem. For years, it has been talked about as a last resort, something you only use if everything goes wrong on results day. In reality, Clearing is a normal, built-in part of the UK university admissions system, and every year tens of thousands of students use it to secure a place that suits them better.

Whether you have missed your grades, changed your mind, or simply did not apply earlier, this guide explains exactly how university Clearing works, who it is for, and whether it is worth it, without the panic.

What is university Clearing?

University Clearing is a process that helps match students who do not currently hold a confirmed university place with courses that still have vacancies.

It runs through UCAS and sits alongside the main admissions cycle, rather than replacing it. Clearing exists because universities cannot perfectly predict how many students will accept offers or meet their grades, meaning places often remain available after results day.

Clearing is open to students from a range of backgrounds, not just those who failed. It includes late applicants, students changing their minds, and those who want more control over their final choice.

What is the point of Clearing?

The point of Clearing is to keep the university admissions system flexible and fair.

Rather than leaving places unfilled or forcing students into courses they no longer want, Clearing allows universities to continue recruiting and students to keep their options open. It benefits both sides: institutions fill places, and students avoid losing a year of education unnecessarily.

Clearing also recognises that students make better decisions when they have real information, including confirmed grades, rather than predictions and pressure.

Is it worth going through Clearing?

For many students, Clearing is not just worth it. It is the better option.

Students who use Clearing often say they feel more confident in their final choice because they are deciding with clearer priorities and less influence from teachers, parents, or predicted grades. Clearing can also open doors to universities or locations students had not previously considered.

It is particularly useful if your results do not reflect your expectations, or if your goals change between applying and results day.

Who is eligible for UCAS Clearing?

You are eligible for UCAS Clearing if you do not currently hold a confirmed place.

This includes students who received no offers, declined all offers, missed their grades, applied late, or released themselves from an existing place. UCAS confirms eligibility clearly in your account, so there is no guesswork involved.

Eligibility can change during the summer, which is why checking UCAS regularly around results day is important.

When does Clearing open and close?

Clearing typically opens in early July and runs until October, although the busiest and most competitive period is around A level results day in August.

For 2026 entry, Clearing is open from 2 July to 19 October 2026.

Most popular courses fill quickly in August, but places continue to appear throughout September, especially for universities offering January starts or flexible entry routes.

Clearing officially closes once UCAS stops accepting new choices for that cycle.

Do universities accept lower grades in Clearing?

In many cases, yes, but each circumstance is different.

During Clearing, universities may show greater flexibility on grades, particularly if a student’s qualifications are relevant to the course and they demonstrate strong motivation. Lower grades do not guarantee acceptance, but they do not automatically exclude you either.

What courses usually go into Clearing?

The courses available in Clearing change each year based on demand, results patterns, and university capacity.

Subjects such as business, psychology, computing, social sciences, and creative degrees commonly appear, but availability can vary widely. Some years, even competitive or specialist courses have Clearing places due to shifting demand.

This is why it is always worth checking. Assumptions about what will not be available are often wrong.

Which universities go into Clearing?

Oxford and Cambridge do not participate in Clearing and have different application deadlines. However, most UK universities participate in Clearing in some form.

This includes modern universities, campus universities, and in some years some higher tariff providers too. Clearing does not indicate low quality. It reflects how unpredictable admissions cycles can be.

How likely is it to get into university through Clearing?

Statistically, your chances are good. Each year, tens of thousands of students secure a place through Clearing.

Your likelihood improves if you are flexible on location or course title, proactive in contacting universities, and realistic about entry requirements. Students who prepare in advance generally find Clearing far less stressful.

Is Clearing first come, first served?

Clearing is not officially first come, first served, but timing still matters.

Universities assess suitability, not just speed. However, courses do fill up, so acting promptly gives you more choice. Waiting too long can mean fewer options, even if your grades are strong.

Is Clearing different from Adjustment?

Yes, and this often causes confusion.

Clearing is for students without a confirmed place, or for those who choose to release themselves and look for something else. Adjustment previously covered students who exceeded their grades, but most of its function has now been absorbed into Clearing via self release.

What should I do if I do not get my grades?

If you miss your grades, your first step is to check whether your firm choice will still accept you. If not, Clearing becomes your next route.

Take time to review your results and priorities before making calls. Rushing into a place purely out of fear can lead to regret.

Clearing exists precisely for this moment. You do not need to panic to use it successfully.

How much does it cost to retake A levels in the UK?

How stressful is Clearing?

Clearing can feel intense, especially around results day, but stress often comes from uncertainty rather than the process itself.

Students who go in with a shortlist, notes, and backup plans usually feel far more in control. Remember, universities want to speak to you. You are not an inconvenience.

How to get accommodation through Clearing

Accommodation is one of the biggest worries for students going through Clearing, but in practice, it is rarely a reason not to accept a university place.

Universities are well aware that Clearing students have not had the same lead time as those who secured places earlier in the year. Because of this, many institutions set aside a portion of halls specifically for Clearing applicants, or release additional rooms once results are confirmed. Others work closely with trusted private accommodation providers to make sure students still have realistic housing options.

While the range of accommodation available through Clearing may be more limited, most students do secure a place, especially if they act quickly and remain flexible about room type, location, or contract length.

The most important step is to contact the university accommodation team as soon as you accept a Clearing offer. They can explain what is available, how to apply, and what alternatives exist if halls are full.

Accepting the wrong university place through Clearing

One of the biggest risks in Clearing is accepting a place out of panic.

Clearing decisions can feel urgent, but you are allowed to ask questions, compare options, and take time. Accepting the wrong course or university can have long term consequences for motivation and wellbeing.

Clearing works best when used deliberately, not emotionally.

Final thought

University Clearing is not a backup plan. It is a flexible, legitimate route into higher education.

For many students, it leads to better informed decisions, stronger course fit, and a more positive university experience overall. Whether you are navigating missed grades, late decisions, or a change of heart, Clearing gives you options and control.