Degree board · Guide
Clearing 2026 a calm, practical guide
No place confirmed yet? Clearing fills remaining courses from July to October, here's exactly how it works and how to be ready before results day.
How Clearing works
Four steps, the calls matter more than the forms.
1
Prepare a shortlistSave 5–10 realistic courses before results day, use the Save button on any course page and compare them on your shortlist.2
Results day (mid-August)If you missed your conditions, check UCAS Hub first, you may still be accepted. If not, your Clearing number appears and you can start calling.3
Call the universityClearing lines open early on results day. Have your UCAS ID, grades and two sentences on why this course. Ask for the offer in writing.4
Add your Clearing choiceOnly add a course in UCAS Hub once a university has verbally offered you a place. One choice at a time, it's confirmed within days.Build your shortlist by subject
Compare entry standards and outcomes before the phones open.
Clearing questions
What is Clearing?
Clearing is how UK universities fill remaining places between July and October. If you don't hold an offer, or your results changed your plans, you can apply directly to courses that still have space.
Who can use Clearing?
Anyone without a confirmed place: you applied but got no offers, declined your offers, missed your conditions, changed your mind (self-release), or are applying for the first time after 30 June.
How do I apply through Clearing?
Check your grades against courses you like, call the university's Clearing line (or apply online), get a verbal offer, then add the course as your Clearing choice in UCAS Hub. Offers can go in hours, have your UCAS ID, grades and a short pitch ready.
Do good universities enter Clearing?
Yes, most universities, including Russell Group members, list at least some courses. Places at popular courses go quickly on results day, so prepare a shortlist in advance.
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