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UCAS Clearing explained: who can use it and how it works

More than 50,000 students find a university place through Clearing each year. Who can use it, the four steps and the key dates.

Written by the Brainhub Editorial Team Cites published research Updated 31 Oct 2026 5 min read

Key takeaways

1. Why this week

Clearing opens on Friday 2 July 2027, six weeks before A-level results day on 12 August. Knowing how it works now takes the panic out of results day, whatever happens.[3]

2. What Clearing is

Clearing is how universities and colleges fill any places they still have on their courses. UCAS says more than 50,000 students find places through it each year, and over 30,000 courses are offered through it.[1]

It is a normal route into university, not a last resort. Many students use it by choice.

3. Who can use it

You can use Clearing if you have made a UCAS application and do not hold any offers. That covers four situations.[1]

Applying late

You apply after 30 June. From then on, Clearing is the only way in.

No offer you want

You had no offers, or none you wanted to accept.

Missed your conditions

Your results did not meet the conditions of your offers.

Changed your mind

You declined your firm place with the "decline my place" button.

4. The four steps

UCAS sets out four steps. The most important rule: only add a Clearing choice once the university or college has said yes.[1]

Step
What to do
1. Ask for advice
Talk to a teacher, careers adviser or the school’s UCAS lead.
2. Check vacancies
Use the UCAS search tool. It is the only official vacancy list.
3. Call the university
Have your Clearing number and Personal ID ready. Ask if you meet the entry requirements.
4. Add your choice
Add one Clearing choice, by the date they give you. If they don’t confirm, you can add another.

5. Clearing Plus

If you are unplaced, a "My matches" button appears in your application. It shows your top 50 course matches. Mark the ones you like as "interested", and universities with places may contact you.[2]

6. Key dates for 2027

These dates are for students applying to start in 2027.[3]

Plan B is still a good plan.
Date
What happens
30 June 2027
Last date for main-scheme applications. After this, Clearing only.
2 July 2027
Clearing opens.
12 August 2027
A-level results day. The busiest day of Clearing.
October 2027
Clearing closes (19 October in 2026; the 2027 date is still to be confirmed).

7. How you can help

Before results day, sit down together and list two or three back-up courses your child would be happy with. Write the Clearing number, Personal ID and phone numbers on one sheet. On the day, let your child make the calls: universities want to speak to the applicant.

Ready for next steps: Our qualified teachers help sixth formers prepare for results day, resits and the first year of university study. Online or in person. Book a free call.

Try it now

Test yourself on this page

Answer in your head first, then check.

  1. 1. When does Clearing open for 2027 entry?

  2. 2. How many Clearing choices can you add at once?

  3. 3. What should you do before adding a Clearing choice?

Your next steps

  • Save the UCAS Clearing page in your bookmarks.
  • List two or three back-up courses together.
  • Put the Clearing number and Personal ID on one sheet for results day.

Sources

  1. UCAS. What is Clearing? (dates, who can use it and how to apply). ucas.com/applying/after-you-apply/clearing-and-results-day/what-is-clearing
  2. UCAS. Clearing: what you need to know (1 July 2026). ucas.com/connect/blogs/clearing-what-you-need-know
  3. University of Bath. Important dates for undergraduate applicants starting in 2027. bath.ac.uk/corporate-information/important-dates-for-undergraduate-applicants-starting-in-2027

This guide is general study advice. Every student is different. A teacher can help you work out what fits.