Guide to Clearing in the UK 2025

Did you miss out on a university offer? Changed your mind about your course? Don’t worry—UCAS Clearing 2025 is your second chance to find a university place and start your student journey this autumn.

Clearing in the UK 2025: Everything you need to know

Whether you didn’t get the grades you were hoping for, or you’re applying a bit later than expected, here’s everything you need to know about Clearing in the UK for the 2025/26 academic year.

What is Clearing?

Clearing is how universities and colleges fill places they still have available in their courses. If you're not currently holding an offer—or if you've changed your mind—Clearing helps you find another route into university.

Over 30,000 courses are available through Clearing every year, and you can apply from 5 July to 20 October 2025.

Who can use Clearing?

You can apply through Clearing if:

• You're applying after 30 June
• You didn’t receive any offers (or none you wanted to accept)
• You didn’t meet the conditions of your offers
• You’ve changed your mind and declined your firm place in UCAS

When does Clearing happen in 2025?

Clearing opens: 5 July 2025

SQA results day: 5 August (you can add Clearing choices from 10am)

JCQ results day: 14 August (you can add Clearing choices from 1pm)

Clearing closes: 20 October 2025

How does Clearing Work?

Here’s a step-by-step guide to using Clearing:

1. Ask for Advice

Speak to your school, college, or careers adviser. They can help you explore your options, including alternative courses or different universities.

2. Search for Courses

Use the official UCAS Clearing search tool to find up-to-date course vacancies. If your original subject isn’t available:

• Consider joint honours courses
• Try a similar subject area
• Keep checking—universities update their vacancies regularly

3. Contact Universities Directly

Before adding any choice to your UCAS application, you must speak to the university or college:

• Give them your Clearing number and Personal ID
• Ask if they’d consider you
• Get informal offers
• Ask about accommodation options
• Check if they offer campus tours or virtual open days

4. Add a Clearing choice

Once you’ve been given permission, log into your UCAS Hub and:

• Click ‘Add Clearing choice’
• Enter the course details
• This counts as you accepting the offer. If the university confirms it, you're in!

You can only add one Clearing choice at a time, but if you're not accepted, you can add another.

UCAS Clearing Matches

If you’re unplaced or start a new application, a ‘My matches’ button will appear in your UCAS Hub. This shows your top 50 course matches based on your application details. You can register your interest, and if you meet the requirements, the university may get in touch.

What if you’re an International Student?

International students can also apply through Clearing.

You’ll need to:

• Meet entry requirements
• Be aware of international tuition fees
• Apply for a student visa if necessary

FAQs about Clearing

How do I know if I’m in Clearing?

• If your application status says ‘You are in Clearing’ or ‘Clearing has started’, you’re eligible. You can also enter Clearing by declining your firm place.

Where’s my Clearing number?

• Find it under ‘Application status’ in your UCAS Hub—only if you’re eligible.

Why don’t I have a Clearing number yet?

• Your results may not have been updated yet. If you’re unsure, call the university for clarification.

How much does Clearing cost?

• If you paid £22.50 for one course initially, you’ll need to pay an extra £4.50 to apply through Clearing.

Where can I find Clearing vacancies?

• All vacancies are listed in the UCAS search tool from July onwards and updated regularly.

Can I use Clearing if I want to change my firm choice?

• Yes. Click ‘Decline my place’ in UCAS to enter Clearing and choose a new course.

Can I go to my insurance choice instead?

• Not directly. You’ll need to contact them and go through Clearing to switch.

Universities that don’t usually take part in Clearing

While most universities offer Clearing places, some of the most competitive institutions do not, including:

• University of Oxford
• University of Cambridge
• UCL (University College London)
• Imperial College London
• LSE (London School of Economics)

Final Tip: Secure your accommodation early!

Once your place is confirmed, don’t forget to book your student accommodation.

Check out Hallbookers for a wide range of affordable and high-quality student rooms across the UK—from ensuite studios to shared flats, we’ve got something for every student.

Explore student accommodation on Hallbookers

Good Luck!

Clearing can feel stressful, but it’s also an exciting opportunity to find the course—and future—you really want. Keep calm, do your research, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. The right place is out there waiting for you.