What Is UCAS Clearing: Finding a Last-Minute Place in the UK

Short answer: Clearing is the UCAS stage that matches universities' unfilled places with applicants who do not have an offer. It is most active in summer, around results time.

Who Clearing is for

• Applicants with no offers;
• Applicants who did not meet the conditions (grades) of their offers;
• Late applicants (after the main deadline);
• Applicants who have declined their place and are looking for another course.

How Clearing works

1. Your status in UCAS Hub shows "Clearing" and you receive a Clearing number.
2. You search for vacancies on the UCAS website (universities also publish lists on their own sites).
3. You call the university or complete its online form; there may be a short interview.
4. You receive a verbal offer and add that university in UCAS.
5. Once the university confirms, the place is yours.

Key points for international students

• Visa timing: Clearing is a late stage, leaving little time for your CAS and visa. See: what is a CAS.
• Have your language certificate and documents ready: The university may ask for proof immediately.
• Proof of funds: The money required for the visa should already be in your account.
• Accommodation: Finding halls is harder with a late admission.

Preparing for Clearing

• Prepare a list of alternative courses and universities.
• Prepare for the phone call: briefly explain why you want the course.
• Do not decide in a rush: check the course content and the university's status.

EDDE Global

EDDE Global supports UK applicants, including finding alternatives at a late stage. Free consultation: konsultasiya.eddeglobal.az.