What is Clearing?
In 2022, a total of 33,280 students secured their university places through Clearing (UCAS, 2022), so it’s worth knowing about if you’re looking to go to university this September.
The Clearing system is used by UCAS and UK universities at the end of the academic year to fill courses that still have spaces left on them. However, rather than filling spaces on courses that nobody wants, Clearing is now being used by more and more prospective students as it provides more choice and greater flexibility.
Who is Clearing for?
Clearing is for those who have just completed their A Levels and/or BTEC qualifications but have changed their minds about what they’d like to study, or achieved higher grades than expected, or didn’t meet their firm or insurance offer requirements. It’s important to know that even if you don’t meet your firm or insurance offer requirements, it doesn’t automatically mean you enter Clearing. Make sure you check the UCAS Hub on results day; you may find that you’ve still been given a place, or that a decision has not been made yet. If that’s the case, we recommend you give that university a call.
You can also apply through Clearing if you’re applying after 30 June, or if you haven’t accepted any offers yet.
People who have been out of education for a while and are ready to begin a new career or just pursue something they’re passionate about can also use Clearing. So, if you’re thinking about returning to education but are not sure if you meet the requirements, please contact our mature student adviser, Vicki Riley, via email at v.riley@chester.ac.uk to discuss your options, or you can complete our online form and we will be in touch. We also offer Foundation Years for those who wish to complete an undergraduate course but do not have the necessary academic qualifications to enter directly onto the first year.
So, Clearing is for prospective students in a range of different circumstances and it’s a brilliant opportunity to find the perfect university and course for you. There are lots of universities to choose from and a wide selection of courses; take a look at our A-Z Clearing Course Listing to find a course that you’re passionate about. At the University of Chester, we’re a community so studying with us will feel like home away from home – it won’t take you long to find your people and find your place here.
When is Clearing?
Most of the action around Clearing happens on results day. However, Clearing is open for over three months, so you have time to find the right university and course to suit you. This year, Clearing is open from 5th July – 17th October.
At the University of Chester, you can contact us by telephone on 01244 567 470 or via email at clearing@chester.ac.uk
Our lines will be open from 9am – 5.30pm Monday to Thursday, and from 9am – 4.30pm on a Friday during the Clearing period. However, we have extended hours on the following days:
Thursday 17th August: 8am – 7pm
Friday 18th August: 8am – 7pm
Saturday 19th August: 9am – 5pm
Sunday 20th August: 10am – 4pm
Saturday 26th August: 9am – 5pm
Sunday 27th August: 10am – 4pm
How can I find out more information about Clearing?
To find out more information, you can register for Clearing updates, and advice and guidance about Clearing. You can also visit our website for a step-by-step guide to applying through Clearing.
We’re currently planning several Clearing Visit Days this summer, where you’ll be able to attend a departmental session and meet staff from your course, plus take a student-led tour of our campus facilities. These will be available to book soon, but if you would like more information please contact:
T: 01244 512800
Each year, hundreds of students join the University of Chester through Clearing. Read our Student Clearing Stories to find out more about some of our students who applied through Clearing, and how a change of plan can lead to an amazing university experience.