Your Clearing Questions Answered: 30 Frequently Asked Questions About University Clearing

1. What is university Clearing?

Clearing is the UCAS admissions process that helps students find university places on courses that still have spaces after offers have been made. It's about matching students who need a place with courses that still have spaces available.

2. What does university 'Clearing' mean?

'Clearing' simply means clearing unfilled spaces on university courses.

3. Is Clearing only for people who miss their required grades?

No; lots of students use Clearing if they're eligible.

4. Who can use Clearing?

You may want to use Clearing if:

• You're applying for the first time after 30th June 2026
• You didn't receive any offers
• You declined your existing offers
• You didn't meet the conditions of your firm choice
• You've been released from a place

5. Can I use Clearing if I already have an offer?

Yes; depending on your circumstances, you may be able to release yourself into Clearing by declining any existing offers so you can pursue alternative options.

6. Can I go into Clearing if I exceeded my grades?

Yes; some students use Clearing strategically to access a university and/or course they did not originally apply for.

7. Can I use Clearing without a UCAS application?

You will normally need a UCAS account to secure a place, but you can create one and apply later in the cycle.

8. Can International students use Clearing?

Yes; we welcome international applicants through Clearing, subject to visa and entry requirements.

9. How common is it to use Clearing?

Very common, and it's becoming a popular choice and no longer viewed as a last resort. Every year, tens of thousands of students secure university places through Clearing.

10. Is Clearing a bad thing?

Not at all; many students find courses through Clearing that suit them better than their original choices – it's a good thing to find the right fit for you.

11. Are some courses more likely to appear in Clearing than others?

Yes and no! Course availability depends on how many places the university still needs to fill. So, this changes every year depending on demand and the number of applicants who accepted their initial offers. It's worth looking at what is on offer; you may be surprised at the variety of opportunities.

12. What if I miss my grades by one grade?

Don't panic – you may still get an offer if you can demonstrate your suitability for the course and there are still places available. It's worth having the conversation – be brave!

13. Are Clearing entry requirements different?

They can be; some courses maintain standard requirements while others may accept slightly lower grades. Your overall suitability for the course and any other work experiences you have will be used when you're considered for a place.

14. How often do Clearing vacancies change?

Very frequently, especially around results day. New places can appear and disappear throughout the day as students accept new offers in real time.

15. Can I find Foundation Year courses through Clearing?

Yes; Foundation Years can be a great option if you need an alternative route into your chosen subject – if your grades or original subjects don't quite work for your chosen course.

16. What if the course I want isn't available through Clearing?

Consider:

• Similar courses
• Foundation Years 
• Joint honours degrees
• Deferring and reapplying next year

17. Can the university make me an offer over the phone?

You may be offered a verbal or informal offer after your discussion with the university's Admissions team – you'll then pick up the process through UCAS once you've considered your options and add your offer to your UCAS account ready for it to be finalised.

18. What should I do before results day to prepare for Clearing?

Prepare a shortlist of universities, courses and backup options, so you're ready to act quickly and secure a place you want.

19. How many universities should I contact?

Aim for around three options, so you have a good idea of what feels best. The comparison will help ensure you're not making a panic decision.

20. Can I change my mind after receiving a Clearing offer?

Usually yes, until you've formally accepted and the place is confirmed through UCAS.

21. Is Clearing stressful?

It can be an intense experience, but knowing what to expect and doing a bit of prep will go a long way.

22. How does university Clearing work?

The Clearing process, in short, looks like this:

1. Check if you're eligible – choosing a bit later may mean choosing something better for you!
2. Search available courses – you can do this through UCAS and directly on the University website 
3. Contact the university – it's worth getting contact details saved in advance
4. Receive informal offers – after you've had a chat with the Admissions team, you'll know if you can proceed with the UCAS process
5. Add your chosen course in UCAS
6. Accept the place

Find out more in our step-by-step guide.

23. Can I apply through Clearing online?

We recommend using the telephone hotlines as a direct and quick way of getting your offers on the table, giving you ample time to weigh up your options.

Here's our Clearing contact information (take a screenshot):

Home/UK students: +441244567470
International students: +441244512465
Alternatively, you can drop us an email: clearing@chester.ac.uk

24. Is university Clearing first come, first served?

Partly; the university assesses suitability first, but popular courses can fill quickly. Being prepared and getting in contact early can improve your chances.

25. When does university Clearing start?

Clearing 2026 opened on the 2nd of July, but it'll get a lot busier around the A Level results day in August. During the Clearing period (2nd July – 19th October), our lines are open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 5.30pm, and on a Friday from 9am to 4.30pm. We also have extended opening hours on the following dates and times:

• Thursday 13th August: 8am – 6pm
• Friday 14th August: 8am – 6pm
• Saturday 15th August: 9am – 5pm
• Sunday 16th August: 10am – 4pm
• Saturday 22nd August: 9am – 5pm

26. When is Clearing Day?

Students often use "Clearing Day" to describe A Level results day in August, when the highest volume of Clearing applications takes place. But there is no one singular day of Clearing. The full Clearing period for 2026 runs from 2nd July to 19th October, but availability changes daily.

27. Should I phone universities on results day if I'm applying for Clearing?

Yes, if possible. Admissions staff can often give immediate guidance and discuss alternative options. You may also receive an initial informal offer in this call.

28. What information should I have ready when calling the university?

Make sure you prepare:

• UCAS ID
• Exam results
• Personal statement highlights
• Course interests
• GCSE grades (if relevant)

29. What questions will universities ask in a Clearing call?

You can expect questions like:

• Why do you want the course?
• Why this university?
• What were your grades?
• What are your career goals?

Quick tip: you can see our example calling script. You may want to prepare one of your own, so you feel ready for the call and have all the information to hand. 

30. What's the best advice for applying through Clearing?

Our wonderful Admissions Manager, Robbie, said:

"Be prepared, be confident, act quickly but take a breath before you commit, and remember we are here to help you make the decision that is right for you."