Every year, thousands of students secure their university place through the UCAS Clearing process—a route designed for those whose results day doesn’t go as planned. Whether you missed your grades, applied late, declined your firm offer, or changed your mind about your course or university, Clearing offers you a second chance.
For a detailed breakdown, Urban Hub provides excellent guidance on how the UCAS Clearing process works, when it opens, and how to prepare in advance so you can make the most of this opportunity.
What Is UCAS Clearing?
Clearing is part of the UCAS admissions system in the UK that matches students without a university place to courses with available spots. It opens on 5 July 2025 and runs until 20 October 2025. If you’re awaiting your A-level results on 14 August 2025, you can start adding Clearing choices in your UCAS Hub from 1 pm UK time onward.
You’re eligible for Clearing if you:
Didn’t receive any offers (or none you want to accept)
Missed your firm or insurance grade requirements
Applied after the 30 June UCAS deadline
Released yourself into Clearing via the “Decline my place” option
Results Day: What to Expect
On results morning, log into the UCAS Hub from around 8 a.m. to check your application status. If you’re in Clearing, it will clearly say so, and you’ll get a Clearing number. This is essential for contacting universities directly. Have your UCAS ID, results, and a shortlist of preferred courses ready.
Step-by-Step: How the UCAS Clearing Process Works
Search for vacancies
From 5 July, you can use the UCAS course search tool to find available places. Urban Hub recommends shortlisting in advance, so you can act quickly on results day.Check Clearing matches
UCAS may suggest up to 50 courses that match your profile through Clearing Plus. You can indicate “I’m interested,” and universities might contact you.Call universities directly
Contact the admissions teams with your Clearing number and results. Speak clearly, express your interest, and ask any questions about the course and campus life.Receive a verbal offer
If successful, you’ll get a verbal offer. You then need to add your Clearing choice in UCAS Hub to secure it. You can only hold one Clearing choice at a time.Confirm and prepare
Once your offer is confirmed, arrange accommodation, update your student finance application, and prepare for university life.
Why Clearing Matters
Clearing isn’t just a backup option—it’s a valuable opportunity. In 2024, nearly 39,000 UK 18-year-olds secured their university place through Clearing. Even top universities, including members of the Russell Group, often have unfilled places before results day.
Many students discover courses and institutions they hadn’t previously considered, sometimes finding a better fit than their original choice.
Urban Hub’s Advice for Clearing Success
Based on Urban Hub’s expert tips:
Prepare early: Gather your Clearing number, UCAS ID, and list of target universities before results day.
Be flexible: Consider related courses if your first choice isn’t available.
Stay calm: Universities want enthusiastic, prepared students—confidence can make a big difference.
Think beyond grades: Consider location, facilities, and student support when making a decision.
Final Thoughts
The UCAS Clearing process ensures that missing your initial offer isn’t the end of your university dreams. With preparation, a positive attitude, and trusted resources like Urban Hub, you can navigate results day with confidence. Many students find Clearing to be the start of an even better journey than they originally planned—proof that a setback can lead to exciting new opportunities.
For more detailed advice, visit Urban Hub’s guide on understanding the UCAS Clearing process for results day.
