Every year more than 30,000 people gain a place through Clearing; making it a popular and hugely important part of the UCAS process. It exists on the premise of providing second chances for those who, for a variety of diverse reasons; have not yet been allocated a college place. It begins in August of each year.

For students who are willing to have a degree of flexibility and are equipped with reasonable exam results Clearing can be an extremely helpful option for those who have not acquired a college place. Eligibility is decided on a few factors; for instance you must have applied in the current year; and not have withdrawn application. It is required that you hold no offers either because you didn’t receive any, or your offers weren’t confirmed because you didn’t meet the requirements (i.e. didn’t achieve the necessary results in exams). You could also benefit from the Clearing process if you missed the response deadline and as a result your offers have been rescinded.

Course vacancies are published on the UCAS site from mid-August until late September; the applicant generally contacts the college directly to apply. More information on this is provided by UCAS close to the opening date of entry, so regular checks on the site are recommended.