When it comes to university Clearing, it’s good to have all the facts about what it is and how it works. That way, you can make the most of your options.

We’re here to dispel the myths and misconceptions you might have heard, and clear up Clearing for good.

“I heard that you can only apply through Clearing if you’ve already put in a UCAS application”

False. You can apply for a place at your university of choice direct through Clearing, bypassing the UCAS application process altogether. In fact, as soon as you’ve got your results, you can apply online for a place at Edge Hill.

“I applied to a university that offered me a place, but I turned it down. Now I’ve changed my mind. I don’t think they will accept me through Clearing”

False. Declining an offer earlier in the application process has no impact on your Clearing options. If you’re reconsidering, don’t hold back.

“Most people I know used Clearing in August, right after A Level results day. But I think you can actually apply through clearing until October”

True. Clearing is actually open until 18 October 2023, so don’t feel pressured to make your decision on results day. Take your time, think about what’s best for you, and go along to an open day at whichever universities you’re giving thought to if you’re able to.

“Clearing is only for people whose results weren’t as high as they expected. You can’t use it if you get higher grades than you thought you would”

False. If you exceed your predicted grades and want to reconsider a university with higher entry requirements, you can do exactly that. Just log in to your UCAS account and decline your existing place, then you can call the Clearing hotline for whichever university you’re reconsidering or apply using Clearing Plus.

“I’ve applied to my favourite university to study Physical Geography but I’m actually more interested in Environmental Science now. I can use Clearing to change my course”

True. If you’ve changed your mind about the course you want to study, or your grades on results day mean your options have changed, you can use Clearing to change your course.

And there you have it. Some of the most common misconceptions around Clearing, cleared up for you.

If you want more information about how the Clearing process works, and how best to prepare for results day, read six things to know about Clearing or take a look at our Clearing FAQs.

July 3, 2023