Think Clearing is just for missed grades? Think again – UEA student shares her story
By: Communications
Many students across the UK will find out what is next for them later this week when they receive their A-Level results on Thursday (14 August).
For some, this day will mark the next step of accepting an offer from their chosen university. Yet for others, it’s a moment of redirection - a chance to explore new possibilities through Clearing: the system used by UK universities to fill course places that are still open.
Whether you didn’t get the grades you were expecting, have only just decided to come to university, or have had second thoughts about where to study – Clearing is an opportunity to find a place at university if you don’t yet have one.
Case study: Earlgi Dadzie’s journey to UEA
Earlgi Dadzie, a first-year Law student from London and the first in her family to attend university, made a bold decision last summer: she turned down her firm and insurance offers and entered Clearing to pursue a place at the University of East Anglia.
Earlgi said: “My decision to go into Clearing was a last-minute decision. I wanted to go to uni, study law, but it wasn't until the summer holidays that I had an internship in London.
“And I realized that London is very fast paced, and it was going to be very similar if I did go to uni in London, and I'd have to commute.”
Earlgi used a Clearing app when she realised UEA was offering guaranteed accommodation, she knew it was the right choice after the stress of trying to find housing in London.
Prof Charles Seger on Clearing misconceptions
“There’s a misconception that Clearing is only for students who didn’t get the grades,” says Prof Charles Seger, Assistant Pro-Vice-Chancellor for Recruitment and Admissions at UEA. “But that’s simply not true. Many students, like Earlgi, use Clearing strategically to change direction or upgrade their choices.”
Prof Seger encourages students to prepare ahead of results day.
He said: “You don’t need to rush. Have a shortlist of courses and universities, call in the morning, and take time to consider your options. You can receive multiple offers and then decide.
“At UEA, we call back all of our Clearing offer holders so they can speak to an academic about the course.
“We also offer campus tours and open days, and we’ll absolutely hold your offer if you ask - so you can visit Norwich, meet staff and students, and get a real feel for the place.”
A changing Clearing landscape
In 2024, over 14,000 students changed their course or university through UCAS - a 9pc increase from the previous year. Meanwhile, 33pc of the Clearing cohort used the “decline my place” option to seek better opportunities, and late applicants rose by 13pc. Only 24pc of Clearing users were students who missed their grades - the lowest share on record.
UEA is preparing to welcome more than 4,000 new undergraduate students this September, with strong interest in Clearing vacancies already evident.
Why Earlgi chose UEA
“Coming to UEA has helped me make more informed choices for my dream career -becoming a qualified solicitor,” Earlgi says. “The Law School runs workshops and sends out internship opportunities constantly. I secured a summer internship and have applied to volunteer at the UEA Law Clinic.”
She also praises the city of Norwich: “It’s beautiful, affordable, and friendly. People actually ask how your day is going - that doesn’t happen in London! And UEA is really diverse, which was important to me. I turned down other unis because they didn’t feel inclusive.”
Support and guidance available
Ahead of results day, our teams of friendly, professional staff will be available on 01603 294938 to answer students’ questions about the process and help them make informed choices.
Our Clearing hotline will open on Results Day: 01603 944924
Thursday 14 August 08:00 – 20:00
Friday 15 August 08:00 – 18:00
Saturday 16 August 09:00 – 15:00
Sunday 17 August: Closed
Monday 18 August to Friday 22 August: 09:00 – 17:00
Campus tours will run from 10am to 4pm on the following dates: Friday 15 August, Saturday 16 August, Monday 18 August, Wednesday 20 August, Friday 22 August.
If you are looking to start university in September 2025 and still considering your options, then consider joining a top 25 university this September through Clearing.
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