Clearing your Path: Unlocking Your Access to Education
Written by Shaliny Lingeswaran

Being a student from a displaced background in the UK, navigating the new educational framework can be very daunting.
One essential process to consider is ‘Clearing’, which offers a second chance to apply for university courses if you haven’t secured a place. Whether you have received an unexpected exam result, not met the conditions of your offer, or if you have not applied within the deadline, Clearing could be a valuable opportunity to find the right course and university! 

1. What is Clearing?

Clearing is a part of the UK university application process, managed by UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service). It allows students who don’t have a confirmed place at a university to apply for courses with available spots. Clearing opens in early July: the 2024 timeframe is 5 July – 21 October 2024.

2. Who Can Use Clearing?

More than 50,000 students find their places in universities through Clearning every year!

Clearing is available to a wide range of students, if:

    • You didn’t receive any offers.

    • You didn’t meet the conditions of your offers.

    • You exceeded the predicted grades and want to change universities.

    • You declined your offers

    • You applied after the June 30th main application deadline.

3. Why is Clearing Beneficial Especially for Students with Displaced Backgrounds?

Displacement is a challenging and overwhelming experience which inevitably invokes feelings of uncertainty about the future. Clearing can be a crucial opportunity for students who have faced unique challenges and circumstances related to displacement

    • Late Application Opportunities
      This provides a chance to apply for university courses even if the main application deadline is missed. 

    • Flexibility in Course Selection:
      In the absence of proper guidance on the UCAS application process, Clearing provides a chance to explore and select courses that align with specific interests and career aspirations.

    • Adapting to New Circumstances:
      Since the UCAS main application deadline, many displaced students may experience changes in circumstances, such as acquiring a different immigration status or being relocated to another area in the UK by the Home Office. Clearing offers a valuable opportunity to reassess your options and apply again, taking into account your new situation. It’s a second chance to secure a place in higher education and continue your academic journey despite the challenges.

    • Support and Resources:
      When contacting universities about Clearing, they often provide internal additional support to help students navigate the process, including guidance counsellors and advisors who are familiar with the specific needs of displaced students. These resources can assist with understanding the application process, course requirements, and any necessary language support.

    • Access to Funding and Scholarships:
      Clearing can highlight universities that offer scholarships or financial aid specifically for displaced students. These opportunities can alleviate financial barriers and provide essential support for tuition fees, living expenses, and other educational costs.

    • Overcoming Qualification Recognition Issues:
      Recognition of their previous qualifications is a big challenge for students with displaced backgrounds. Clearing provides an opportunity to discuss these issues directly with university admissions teams, who can offer advice on bridging courses or alternative qualifications that may be needed for entry.

    • Focus on Immediate Goals:
      For displaced students, immediate concerns such as securing a safe and stable environment might take precedence over long-term educational planning. Clearing offers a relatively quick and responsive system for finding a place at a university, enabling students to swiftly transition into higher education and begin building a new life.

    • Building a Support Network:
      Starting a course through Clearing can also help displaced students connect with peers and mentors, forming a support network that is crucial for social integration and academic success. Universities often have dedicated support groups and services for international and displaced students, fostering a sense of community.

4. How Does Clearing Work?

A step-by-step guide to using Clearing:

1- Check Your Eligibility
Confirm that you’re eligible for Clearing by logging into/registering your UCAS account. If you see a Clearing number, you’re eligible. Your status will change to ‘You are in Clearing’ or ‘Clearing has started’. 

N.B. if you have already accepted a place at a university you can’t access the Clearing online system. However, if you find another course on the clearing system you would like to apply for INSTEAD of the one you have accepted, please contact UCAS to discuss AND the university offering the course so they can help transfer you if you are eligible for the new course.

2- Research Available Courses
Use the UCAS website to find courses with vacancies. Look at course content, entry requirements, and university facilities to ensure they align with your goals.

3- Contact Universities
Once you’ve identified courses you’re interested in, contact the universities directly. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications and why you’re interested in the course. It’s helpful to have your UCAS ID and Clearing number ready.

4- Apply
If a university offers you a place and you decide to accept it, you’ll need to add the course as a Clearing choice in your UCAS application. The university will then confirm your place.

5- Reply to Offers
Reply to offers if you get all your decisions by 17 July 2024. Clearing closes on 21 October 2024.

5. Tips for a successful Clearing:

    • Act Quickly: Clearing operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so it’s essential to act in a timely manner. Make sure to reach out to universities, respond to emails and offers without delay. However, don’t rush into a decision without careful consideration.

    • Be Prepared: Have your UCAS ID, Clearing number, and details of your qualifications handy. Being organised can make the process smoother.

    • Seek Advice: If you’re unsure, speak to a school advisor, career counsellor, or a helpline like UCAS. They can provide guidance tailored to your situation.

    • Consider All Options: Sometimes, considering a different course, university, or even location can open up unexpected opportunities. Be open to exploring new possibilities. If you have a place but want to apply to a different uni through clearing, it’s important to contact the university you’re applying to, BEFORE declining your offer. UCAS may be able to help swap your places over.

6. Looking for funding?

Most scholarships have unfortunately closed for this coming academic year.

If you are applying for a course through Clearing have a look in the scholarships section of the university’s website and contact them directly to see if there are any scholarships that have not been taken up.

We will also be sending updates of scholarships still available through the Equal Access mailing list, which you can sign up to here.

Wishing you all the best as you explore new opportunities through Clearing.
Remember, every challenge is a step towards a new adventure. Stay positive and trust that the right course is out there for you. We are rooting for you, good luck!

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