A Comprehensive Guide to Applying to a UK University Through Clearing in 2025 

How to Navigate Clearing and Secure Your Place at University 

Applying to university is a rite of passage for many students in the UK, but not every journey follows the traditional path. For those who find themselves without an offer, have had a change of heart, or received unexpected results, Clearing offers a second chance to secure a spot at university. Understanding key dates, processes, and tips for success in Clearing can turn uncertainty into opportunity. 

You can even apply through Clearing NOW if you haven’t even submitted a UCAS application. We are experienced consultants and a registered UCAS centre and can guide you through the process. 

1. What is Clearing?

Clearing is a process managed by UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) that matches applicants without university offers to available course places. It typically runs from July to October each year and is designed for anyone who: 

• Didn’t receive any offers, or none they wish to accept 

• Didn’t meet the conditions of their offers 

• Applied after 30 June 2025 

• Wants to change course or university 

Clearing is not a last resort—it’s a legitimate route taken by thousands of students annually, and many end up thriving at their Clearing choice. In fact, more and more students are using Clearing as their first-choice route to applying to university in the UK, after the exams are over and with a clear idea of what might be possible after a second year in the 6^th form, unencumbered by the more traditional UCAS process. 

Key Clearing Dates for 2025 

Marking your calendar with essential Clearing milestones is the first step to staying organised. Here are the anticipated key dates for Clearing 2025 (note: always check UCAS and university websites for the most up-to-date details): 

• 30 June 2025: Main UCAS application deadline. Applications submitted after this date automatically enter Clearing. This means that applicants no longer make 5 choices but apply to one course at a time. 

• 5th July 2025: Clearing opens. Universities begin publishing available course vacancies. UCAS search tool shows Clearing vacancies. 

• 14th August 2025: A-level results day in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Scottish results day is usually a few days earlier. 

• Mid-August to late September 2025: Peak period for Clearing activity as students receive results and seek available places. 

• 21st October 2025 (expected): Final deadline for adding Clearing choices and completing the 2025 UCAS application cycle. 

Who Can Use Clearing? 

Clearing is open to a wide range of applicants, including: 

• Students who didn't receive any offers or declined their offers 

• Applicants who didn't meet the entry requirements for their conditional offers 

• Individuals who decide to apply late (after 30th June 2025) 

• International students looking for last-minute places 

• Students who have changed their mind about their course or university 

Whether you’re a school-leaver, gap-year student, or mature applicant, Clearing provides a pathway to higher education. 

The Clearing Process: Step by Step 

Understanding how Clearing works can reduce stress and help you make informed decisions. Here’s how the process unfolds: 

For applicants who have already submitted a UCAS application 

1. Preparation

Before Clearing opens, do your homework. Research potential universities and courses that interest you. Make a list of alternatives, and keep track of entry requirements, course content, and location. 

2. Results Day

On A-level results day (14th August 2025), UCAS Track will update at 8am. Log in to check your status: 

• If your place is confirmed: Congratulations! 

• If you’re eligible for Clearing: “You are in Clearing” or “Clearing has started” will appear on your UCAS dashboard. 

Don’t panic. Take a moment to assess your options—Clearing is fast-paced, but considered decisions are crucial. 

3. Finding Courses

Visit the UCAS Clearing search tool online, which lists all available vacancies. University websites also update their lists regularly. 

• Filter courses by subject, location, and requirements. 

• Check for alternative or related courses if your first choice is unavailable. 

• Some courses fill quickly—act promptly, but don’t rush into a decision. 

4. Contacting Universities

Once you spot a course you’re interested in, call the university’s Clearing hotline. Be ready to: 

• Provide your UCAS Personal ID and full details of your qualifications 

• Answer questions about your interest in the course and your achievements 

• Ask about accommodation, course structure, and any bursaries or support available 

Universities may make verbal offers over the phone, but these are usually only valid for a short period (sometimes just a few hours). Note down any offer details, deadlines, and next steps. 

5. Adding a Clearing Choice

When you have an offer you’d like to accept, log in to your UCAS account and add the course as your “Clearing choice.” You can only add one Clearing choice at a time, so be sure before you proceed. 

• Click “Add Clearing choice” and enter the course details (including the institution code and course code). 

• The university will confirm your place in due course. 

6. Confirmation and Next Steps

After adding your Clearing choice and receiving confirmation, you’ll get instructions about enrolment, accommodation, and induction. Keep checking your email (and even your spam folder) for updates from your new university. 

For applicants who have NOT already submitted a UCAS application 

1. Register on www.ucas.com . If you need help with this please contact us. We are a registered UCAS centre.

1. Complete your application section by section, including your Personal Statement. You will not be permitted to add a choice at this stage. 

1. Ensure your referee is aware that you intend to make a “late” application through Clearing so that they can add your reference. 

1. Once you have chosen a suitable course and made an enquiry online via a university website that has been responded to positively, “add a choice”. 

Tips for Success in Clearing 2025 

Clearing can feel like a whirlwind, but with good preparation and a calm approach, you can make it work for you. 

• Be proactive: Start researching courses and universities before results day. The more you know, the better your options. 

• Be organised: Have all your grades, qualifications, and personal information ready to hand when you make calls. If you have already made a UCAS application, know your PID (UCAS number) from your UCAS dashboard. 

• Be flexible: Consider related subjects or joint-honours courses if your preferred option isn’t available. 

• Be persistent: If you don’t get through on the phone, try again. Hotlines can be busy, especially on results day. 

• Many universities have online enquiry forms for Clearing on their websites, open long before results day. Use this form to enquire, even if you haven’t yet made a formal UCAS application. If you receive an encouraging response, you can focus on submitting a UCAS application at this point but be sure your school reference writer is aware as the reference will be required. 

• Be honest and enthusiastic: Admissions staff want to hear why you’re interested and why you’d be a good fit. 

What Happens After Clearing? 

Securing a place through Clearing is just the start. Here’s what to expect next: 

• Register for accommodation—university halls fill quickly, but many institutions offer help finding private rentals. 

• Apply for student finance if you haven’t already. Notify loan providers of your new university/course. 

• Look out for welcome emails, orientation dates, and opportunities to connect with other new students. 

• Start preparing for the academic year—organise your travel, materials, and finances. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Can international students use Clearing? 

Yes! Clearing is open to international applicants, and universities often have dedicated advisers to help with visas and documentation. 

Is Clearing only for students who missed their grades? 

No. Clearing is for anyone without a university place by early July, including late applicants and those who changed their mind about their course or institution. Some applicants used both 6^th form years to focus on qualifications and only consider university after Clearing has opened. 

Can I approach more than one university at a time? 

You can call multiple universities, but you can only add one Clearing choice at a time on UCAS. If you change your mind before a university confirms your place, you can swap your choice. 

Will going through Clearing affect my chances for accommodation or financial aid? 

Not necessarily. Many universities reserve places in halls and offer bursaries to Clearing students, but early application is key. 

I’m still only 17. Will that be a problem? 

No. Some universities will request a parental declaration that they understand you are not yet 18, giving their permission for you to start your course. Some universities may require you to have a UK-based guardian until the end of the term when you turn 18. Education Advisers can help you find a suitable guardian. Contact us on 0303 003 2259 for free of charge recommendations. 

Final Thoughts: Making Clearing Work for You 

Clearing is a dynamic, fast-moving process, but it’s also an opportunity to discover new paths you might not have considered. Many students who enter university through Clearing report high satisfaction and success. The key is to stay calm, be prepared, and use the process as a chance to reflect on what you want from your university experience. 

If you find yourself considering Clearing in 2025, remember: it’s not about settling for second-best, but about finding the right fit for you. Your university journey can begin in many ways—Clearing is simply one more door to your future. 

At Education Advisers, we are here to help with your Clearing queries, before and after exam results. Call us for expert, impartial advice on 0303 003 2259. 

Good luck with your application, and here’s to the next chapter of your academic adventure!