A-level results day is a moment of joy and triumph for many students, as they eagerly anticipate starting their university journey at their dream school. However, for some, this day can be filled with stress and disappointment if their results do not meet the required grades for their chosen institution. In such cases, students may need to turn to UCAS Clearing to secure a last-minute place at a different university.
Clearing is a system that matches students with available spaces on university or college courses. It provides an opportunity for students who may not have met the grades outlined in their offers to find a suitable alternative. Additionally, students who have exceeded their predicted grades can also use Clearing to explore different course options.
According to Ucas, a record number of students secured a university place through Clearing last year, with over 38,000 students utilizing the system to find a degree. This marked a 14% increase from the previous year, indicating the growing popularity of Clearing as a viable option for students seeking alternative pathways to higher education.
**How to Navigate UCAS Clearing**
**When Does Clearing Open?**
Clearing officially opens at 1pm on Thursday, August 15th. It is important for applicants to wait until they have received all pending exam results before contacting universities and colleges regarding available vacancies. While Clearing will remain open until October 21st, some courses may close earlier depending on their popularity.
**Which Universities Participate in Clearing?**
The majority of universities in the UK offer courses through Clearing, including some of the top institutions in the country. Notably, the Russell Group, which represents 24 prestigious universities, has 18 of its members providing courses through Clearing this year. This offers students a wide range of options to consider when exploring alternative pathways to higher education.
**Are There Any Limitations on Available Subjects?**
In the past, highly competitive courses like medicine were rarely offered through Clearing. However, this trend has shifted, and more oversubscribed courses are now accessible through the Clearing process. This opens up opportunities for students interested in pursuing fields such as medicine, dentistry, and nursing to secure a place through Clearing.
**Reapplying to Previously Rejected Universities**
One of the benefits of Clearing is the ability to reapply to universities that may have rejected you initially. If you come across a course that aligns with your interests and qualifications, reaching out to the admissions team can potentially lead to a second chance at securing a place. This flexibility allows students to explore various options and make informed decisions about their academic future.
**Introducing Clearing Plus**
Clearing Plus, introduced in 2020, aims to assist students who are unplaced or applying through Clearing for the first time. By utilizing this feature in Track, students can discover courses that Ucas recommends based on their original choices, qualifications, and grades. This personalized matchmaking approach enhances the Clearing experience by providing tailored course suggestions to help students find the right fit.
**Making Informed Decisions Through Clearing**
When navigating Clearing, it is essential to contact universities or colleges directly to inquire about available courses and vacancies. To make a successful application, students will need their Personal ID number, Clearing number, grades/UCAS tariff points, and information about why they are seeking a place. It is crucial to approach these conversations with positivity and politeness while carefully considering all available options before making a decision.
As the UCAS Clearing process continues to evolve, students are encouraged to explore all available options and seek guidance from trusted individuals to make informed decisions about their academic future. By leveraging the resources and opportunities provided through Clearing, students can secure a last-minute university place and embark on their higher education journey with confidence.
