So it’s clearing 2020. A year that has turned some of the usual university deadlines and exams season on its head. But that doesn’t mean it has to be all bad as there are great opportunities when applying through UCAS clearing. So settle-in as here’s your ultimate guide to help you navigate the next couple of weeks:

If you get rejected from a university, can you apply again through clearing?

Starting from the top. First off, this sucks. Many others before you have been there and experienced the mixed emotions around being rejected from a university or receiving no offers. The good news is that if you were originally rejected from a university/university course, clearing does offer you a chance to apply again. However, one thing to be mindful of is if you have declined an offer, you can’t then apply through clearing to that university/university course.

Knowing the key dates and facts with clearing

Timing is key here, and whilst there’s always some great opportunities out there the phrase ‘the early bird catches the worm’ is true for clearing. From 6 July – 20 October, you can apply for a course using clearing if you’re not already holding an offer from a university or college, and the course still has places.

You can use clearing if:

• you’re applying after 30 June
• you didn’t receive any offers (or none you wanted to accept)
• you didn’t meet the conditions of your offers
• you’ve paid the multiple choice application fee of £25
• you’ve declined your firm place

Get your essential information ready before you apply. You’ll need:

• your UCAS personal number (if you have one)
• your results (if you know them) – A Level, BTEC, Access course and your AS Levels and GCSEs. You can still apply if you’re waiting for your results. We also accept other level 3 qualifications such as IB, Cambridge Pre-U, Scottish and Irish Highers
• the personal statement from your UCAS application
• any notes on the courses you’re interested in

Taking the time to think bigger picture and consider your skill set

UCAS clearing is a great opportunity to re-think if you are unsure about a course, or wondering if you will be best using your skill set. Lots of universities have easy-to-view course information online with key skills ideal for the course listed alongside them, or to search results via those skills. Also you can use Clearing Plus from UCAS clearing which is a matchmaking service with your results, skills and preferences – serving up potential suitable courses as there are literally hundreds of courses and options to choose from. 

If you want to find out more about university cities, or understand the cost of living in a potential university city, why not check out our student accommodation search function? Either by university or city, the search provides all available properties which you can filter by facilities, price or proximity to your potential university. Head to www.student.com to start your search today.