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Applying Through Clearing If You Get Better Grades Than Expected

If you get the grades you need – or even do better than expected – that’s a brilliant result. It means you can take a fresh look at your options.

You might still be happy with your firm-choice. But if you want to explore something new, Clearing gives you the chance to switch to a different course or university/college – one that needs higher grades.

This is often called “trading up.” You can apply to another course through Clearing while still holding on to your original place. If you change your mind later, you’re still covered.

“It felt amazing to realise I had more choices after Results Day. I used Clearing to find a course I didn’t even know I could apply for.” 

How UCAS Clearing Works

Clearing is your chance to find a course starting this year if:

  • You’ve met or exceeded your firm offer

  • You want to look at other options before committing

You’ll need to wait until your firm choice becomes unconditional on Results Day before applying through Clearing. Then you can log into your UCAS Hub to start the process.

Important Dates for Clearing 2025

  • 5 July – Clearing opens

  • 14 August – A-Level Results Day

  • 20 October – Clearing closes

You can’t apply through Clearing until you’ve received your results, but it is a good idea to do your research before hand.

How to Apply Through Clearing (4 Simple Steps)

  1. Search for Clearing courses
    Use the UCAS website to search, save and compare courses or browse universities or colleges directly.

  2. Contact the university or college
    Call the Clearing hotline of the university or college you’re interested in. Have your UCAS ID (if you have it), exam results, and questions ready.

  3. Add your new choice in UCAS Hub
    Once you get a verbal offer, add it in UCAS Hub. Your old offer will be replaced.

  4. Get ready to start
    Once your place is confirmed, update your UCAS Hub details and organise your student finance, accommodation, and support.

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