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The most common misconception about Clearing is that it opens on A-level results day, with over half (54%) of students believing this to be the case. 

Clearing actually opens in early July every year, over a month before results day. This allows students who don’t yet have any course offers (e.g. because they missed the original UCAS deadline or couldn’t decide on a course) to apply through Clearing.

The first step in the Clearing process is to call universities you are interested in, as this is the easiest and quickest way to contact them about securing a place through Clearing. 

While just under half (49%) of students believe their parents or teachers can contact universities for them, this isn’t true. Students who want to apply through Clearing must contact the universities themselves, and be prepared to give them all the necessary information (such as UCAS number and A-level results) and answer any questions.

Nearly half (49%) of A-level students believe it’s possible to apply through Clearing while still holding one or more offers from universities, but this is another misconception.

You may only apply through Clearing if you do not currently hold any offers – whether because you didn’t meet grade requirements, or because you decided to reject a previous offer to apply somewhere else instead. 

However, A-level students are able to look at the courses available through Clearing while still holding offers. This means you can look at all the options available to you and make an informed decision about whether to reject any current offers and choose a different course instead. 

Sadly, 48% of A-level students believe that Clearing is a stressful experience that happens very quickly – but this doesn’t need to be the case. 

If you take the time to research Clearing and understand the process, it can actually reduce stress and anxiety by providing you with a good back-up option if results day doesn’t go as planned or you have a change of heart about what university or course to attend.

35% of students said they don’t know how to use Clearing to get a place at university, which can contribute to this feeling like a stressful and rushed process. This is why it’s so important to do plenty of research and be prepared ahead of time.

Clearing isn’t always a last resort, despite 44% of students believing it to be. 

Applying through Clearing is a great option for students who decide they want to do a different course than the one they originally applied for, or attend a different university. It’s also very helpful for anyone who missed the original UCAS application deadline, giving them another chance to explore their options and secure a place on a course they are interested in. 

Because Clearing opens in July, students can start looking at courses through Clearing and considering their options well before they receive their university results. In fact, 57% of university students who got in through Clearing said that they knew what courses were available to them ahead of results day. While there’s no guarantee all courses will be available, it’s a great way to get a feel for the options.

This allows plenty of time to research and come up with a plan if your results don’t turn out to be what you expected.

Clearing can feel like a stressful process, but it doesn’t have to be. 

It's important to stay calm and composed, and remember that there’s no reason to be stressed if you’ve done your research and feel prepared for the process.

Take some time to research and familiarise yourself with the Clearing process well before results day. 

Remember Clearing opens in July, so you have plenty of time to make a list of potential universities and courses you're interested in. This way, you can make sure you're prepared if you do need to make any quick decisions.

When contacting universities through Clearing, you’ll need to make sure you have all of your details to hand. This includes things like:

• Your UCAS ID Number
• Your A-level, AS-level and GCSE results (or equivalents)
• Your UCAS personal statement 
• Any questions you have about the university or course

Don't hesitate to reach out for guidance and support. Talk to your teachers, career advisers or university admission officers to seek advice. They can provide valuable insights and help you make informed decisions during the Clearing process. 

Additionally, consider talking to friends or family members who have been through Clearing about their experiences and any tips they might have.

The most important thing to remember is that going through Clearing doesn't mean you've failed. It's an opportunity to explore new options and find a path that suits you. 

With 59% of A-level students admitting to feeling worried they won’t get the grades they need to get into their desired university course, it’s vital to understand that Clearing is a good alternative option to find a course you’re interested in. There may be a similar course at a different university you can apply to, or even a joint honours programme.

Stay positive, remain flexible in your choices, and focus on finding a course and university that will provide the education and experience that’s right for you.