Clearing explained

If you meet any of the following criteria, you’re eligible to apply through Clearing: 

• You get no offers, or decide not to accept any you get  

• You do not meet the conditions of your firm or insurance choice  

• You apply after 30 June 2026.  

If you haven't already applied, you need to create a UCAS application for 2026 entry. Once submitted, you can manage your applications by signing in to your UCAS hub. If you apply after 30 June you will automatically enter into Clearing. 

Before results day, make sure you can log in to your UCAS Hub, as this is where you’ll view offers and manage Clearing choices. Check with your school or college when and how your results will be shared. Finally, prepare any questions you have for universities about accommodation or important dates so you don’t need to think about them on results day.  

Clearing can move quickly, so try to keep the day free. Ensure your phone is fully charged and you have something to write with. 

Once your results are confirmed, contact universities as soon as possible. You’ll need the following information: 

• Your UCAS ID 

• Your Level 3 qualifications (A levels, BTECs or equivalent) 

• Your GCSE grades in Maths, English and Science 

When you call a university, you’ll have a short conversation with a Clearing adviser who will check your eligibility for the course you’re interested in and, if they can, make you a verbal offer. Some courses, like health sciences, may require an interview. This might be completed over the phone, online or you might be invited to a campus interview.

Once you’ve decided which offer to accept, you’ll need to add that university as your Clearing choice in your UCAS Hub. You can do this from 1pm on results day and must do so before the deadline given by the university. You can only add one Clearing choice at a time, so make sure you’re happy with your decision before submitting. The university will check your details and, if everything is correct, confirm your place in UCAS. Then you can officially accept your offer. Once you’ve accepted an offer, you can download your acceptance letter, which you may need for things like opening a student bank account.  

Clearing applications for courses starting in September 2026 close at 6pm on 24 September 2026. However, many courses fill quickly, so we recommend applying on or as soon as possible after A level results day.