A Student’s Guide to Clearing
Follow our Clearing guide to find out how you can apply for undergraduate courses if you don't already hold a place.
What is Clearing?
Clearing is part of the application cycle for universities. It's an opportunity for you to apply for undergraduate courses that still have places available from July.
Why would I use Clearing?
There are a number of reasons you might apply through Clearing. These could be:
- You didn't get the grades set by your firm or insurance choice universities
- You achieved grades that are higher than predicted so you'd like to apply for an alternative course with higher entry requirements
- You've changed your mind about your preferred choice of university
- You've applied but don't hold any offers from universities
- You applied after 4 July which means you automatically get entered into Clearing
If you find yourself without an offer on results day, don't worry. Clearing can be your opportunity to find the course that's right for you.
When is Clearing 2024?
UCAS Clearing opens on the 5 July 2024. If you don't have your exam results yet you can still apply and if you are successful, we'll make you a conditional offer. This means you can apply for accommodation if you choose to accept whilst waiting for your results.
It's possible that some popular courses might fill up by the end of the first week of Clearing following A-Level results day, so it's best not to wait around!
How to prepare for Clearing
There are lots of ways to prepare for Clearing so that you can feel confident during the process.
1. Do your research
There's no need to wait until results day to find out what courses will be available in Clearing. Take some time to research your options.
If you're thinking of applying to Falmouth, then attending a virtual tour or Open Day can be a great way to find out about the University and the courses available. You can also chat to our current students to get the inside scoop about studying at Falmouth.
It's worth remembering, you don't have to apply for the same subject as your original UCAS application, so you can find a course in Clearing which is similar or completely different to your original choices.
2. Get your information ready
Get all the important information and documents to hand before you call the university you've chosen to apply to through Clearing. These include:
- UCAS ID (if you have one)
- UCAS points/exam results (if you have them)
It's also a good idea to have paper and a pen at the ready to take down any notes when you're on the phone.
3. Prepare for the call
Often when you call a university to apply through Clearing you'll be asked questions. You might want to start thinking about the types of questions you could be asked like, 'why are you interested in this course?', and plan some answers or talking points. It's a good idea to remind yourself of your personal statement too, as universities you apply to may want to talk to you about this.
During the call there'll likely be the opportunity for you to ask any questions you might have, such as the types of accommodation still available or if there is any summer reading for the course. So have a think about what you might want to ask.
How to apply through Clearing
Applying through Clearing before results day
If you already have your results, or for whatever reason, you have not received any university offers (perhaps you missed the UCAS deadline), you can apply through Clearing from July.
Results day
Results day can feel a bit daunting, so we've put together the steps below so you know exactly what to expect and can feel excited going into it:
On results day, check UCAS as soon as possible to see the status of your application. If you're eligible for Clearing, UCAS will tell you. If you just missed the grades you were hoping for, it's worth getting in touch with the university to see if they will still accept you.
If you're eligible for Clearing, then using the research you did earlier, call the universities you want to apply through Clearing.
Call the University
Most universities will have a dedicated Clearing call hotline that you can ring. With your UCAS ID to hand, call the university you want to apply to. At Falmouth, you'll speak to a Clearing advisor who'll be able to take you through what you need to do to apply.
How to apply to Falmouth through Clearing
If you decide Falmouth is the place for you then it's time to call us. One of our friendly team will discuss your Clearing application and confirm exactly what you need to do to apply. You will also be given a dedicated point of contact in our Applicant Services Team who will support you through the process, right up until you join us in September!
You may be asked to submit an online portfolio or performance if your course requires it. You may also have a mini-interview with an academic member of staff, who'll ask some questions to learn more about you and why you're interested in the course. These are really straightforward and nothing to worry about and we can give you all the advice and information you need in advance.
The University will then tell you if you've been offered a place. You usually have 24 hours to accept the place before it is released.
Once you've made your decision, follow the instructions in your offer email to accept.
Next steps
I’ve accepted my place through Clearing, what next?
If you've successfully found a place through Clearing, the next stage is to apply for your university accommodation. We offer accommodation in university-owned, managed or approved halls subject to availability.
You will also need to update your student finance application online to reflect any changes to your university choices. It's important to do this as you may be entitled to additional funding depending on where you're now going to university. If you haven't started a student finance application don't wait until you have a place, you can apply while you're waiting.
Remember, Clearing is a great opportunity. Now's the time for you to make a positive decision about your future.
