Everything you need for Results Day and Clearing 2026

Clearing is a process that helps students find a university place after receiving their Results Day grades. Universities advertise courses with available places, and students can contact them directly to discuss their options. It's used by thousands of students every year and isn't just for those who miss their offers.

Clearing is available to lots of different applicants. Most people using Clearing are students leaving school or college, but mature students can use it too. You may be eligible if you don't receive the grades for your first choice, achieve better grades than expected, decide to change course or university, or apply later in the admissions cycle.

Absolutely. Thousands of students secure a university place through Clearing every year and go on to have a fantastic university experience. The most important thing is choosing a course and university that's right for you.

Yes. Clearing opens before A level Results Day – it opened on July 2nd. And some students are eligible to use it before they receive their results. However, most students use Clearing on or after Results Day once they know their grades and can explore available courses.

Clearing usually remains open until October, although many popular courses fill much earlier. If you're interested in a particular course or university, it's worth contacting them as soon as possible after receiving your results.

Yes. Missing your offer doesn't necessarily mean you'll miss out on going to university. Thousands of students find a place through Clearing every year. Once you've received your Results Day grades, you can explore available courses and contact universities to discuss your options.

If you achieve higher grades than expected, you don't have to change your plans. If you're happy with your confirmed place, you can simply accept it. However, if you'd like to explore different courses or universities, Clearing may offer additional opportunities.

Not always. Many universities still encourage phone calls because they allow admissions teams to discuss your options straight away, but some also offer online enquiry forms, live chat or virtual Clearing services. We cover this on the Uni Guide Podcast Clearing and Results Day special – episode 55. Out now!

An admissions adviser (which may even be a student ambassador) will usually ask about your qualifications, discuss the course you're interested in and explain whether they can offer you a place. They will probably be following a script. It's also your opportunity to ask questions about the course, accommodation, student support and university life, especially if a current student is taking the call.

Yes. In fact, it's often a good idea to speak with more than one university before making your decision. Comparing your options can help you make an informed choice about where you'd like to study.

Not necessarily. Universities may ask you to make a decision within a certain timeframe, but it's perfectly reasonable to ask questions and consider your options before accepting. Don't feel pressured into choosing a course that doesn't feel right for you. We cover this during the Uni Guide Podcast Clearing special.

If you can, yes. Many universities hold Clearing open days and campus visits during Results Day and the weeks that follow. Visiting can help you decide whether the university and course feel like the right fit. At UniTasterDays, we have a Clearing event search you can use to help as well!

Look beyond the course title. Check the modules you'll study, assessment methods, placement opportunities, teaching style, facilities and graduate outcomes. Think about whether the course matches your interests, learning style and career goals.

Many universities reserve accommodation for students applying through Clearing, although availability varies. Ask about accommodation when you speak to the university so you understand your options before accepting an offer.

Explore our Results Day and Clearing videos, listen to The Uni Guide Podcast Clearing Special, download the Clearing Crib Sheet, and search for Clearing open days and applicant events to help you make informed decisions about your next steps.