The no-nonsense top tips to getting through UCAS Clearing.

Clearing Tip 1: Don’t panic.
Okay, so the results didn’t quite go to plan. And just because you are in Clearing doesn’t mean your uni dream is over. Lots of courses and universities will have spaces that will open new opportunities that you hadn’t previously considered.

Clearing Tip 2: Research.
Look into the universities and courses that have places in Clearing and make a shortlist of where you would most want to study. Take a look at The Uni Guide for some independent help and advice – it used to be Which? University but is now run by The Student Room.

Clearing Tip 3: Your Details.
Before you make any phone calls get all your details to hand. You’ll need your UCAS ID number, clearing number and your results. (A level / BTEC / GCSE / etc.)

Clearing Tip 4: Be Patient.
The phone lines can be busy, so be prepared to hear “all our agents are currently busy, but we’ll be with you shortly” over and over again. Just hang in there someone will be there to help you!

Clearing Tip 5: Call Yourself.
It may seem daunting, but all the uni’s have teams in place who will be friendly, welcoming and there to help you. They can only speak to you. So mum, dad, auntie, uncle or your bestie can’t speak to them for you. Unless of course, you nominated someone when you first applied through UCAS.

Clearing Tip 6: Make the right choice.
Remember if you accept a place over the phone and you change your mind you don’t need to call the uni back, you can self-release on UCAS. But before you do please make sure you are making the right choice for you, and that you have another offer at another university.

Clearing Tip 7: Uni sorted? Time to get that room sorted.
With your place secure its time to find your uni room. At Host, we have availability in the bulk of our locations throughout the UK and Ireland just jump on our locations page and see what availability we have.
Want to talk? All our onsite teams are available to chat online 9-5 Monday to Friday. Just select the relevant location from the dropdown list within the Chat With Us green box in the bottom right of your screen. Learn more about what clearing is and when it starts here.