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clearing REOPENS JULY 2027

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How to Apply

Clearing is currently closed. It will reopen again in July 2027. If you would like to apply for a dBs course now please visit our How to apply page.

How to Apply

How it works

Clearing is a period each summer, from July, when you can apply for courses that still have places available. It opens after the main UCAS application cycle has closed, so it suits you if you are applying for the first time, have changed your mind about what or where to study, or are still looking for a place. Clearing 2027 opens in July 2027.

1.

Get in touch

When Clearing opens, call our Admissions Team with your Clearing number and UCAS Personal ID to hand. Tell us which course interests you and a little about yourself. Some courses ask for a portfolio before we make a decision.

0161 552 6467
2.

Get your decision

If a portfolio is needed, a subject area expert reviews it before we decide, so an offer may take a little longer than a phone call. As soon as it has been assessed, we will be in touch to let you know if we can offer you a place.

3.

Confirm on UCAS

Once you have an offer, head to your UCAS Hub, then Your Choices, then Add Clearing Choice. Confirm it and September is sorted.

Clearing FAQs

What is clearing and how does clearing work?

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UCAS Clearing matches students who don’t yet hold a university place with courses that still have spaces. It runs from 2 July through to 19 October 2026, with the busiest period in the 24–48 hours after A-level results day on 13 August.

The process works in a few steps. Find a course you’re interested in, call us with your UCAS personal ID and Clearing number ready. We’ll review your application and ask you a few questions; you may also be asked to submit a portfolio. If you’re eligible, we’ll offer you a place. Once you’re ready to accept, go to the ‘Your choices’ section of your UCAS Hub, click ‘Add Clearing choice’, and enter the course details, but only do this once we’ve confirmed you have a place. We’ll then formally confirm your place through UCAS.

When does clearing open?

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Clearing opens on 2 July 2026 and runs through to 19 October.

Who can apply through clearing?

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Clearing is open to you if:

  • You’re applying for university for the first time after 30 June
  • You didn’t receive any offers when you first applied
  • You didn’t meet the conditions of your firm or insurance choice
  • You’ve decided to explore other options and have self-released into Clearing

Applying through UCAS for the first time?

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You can still apply. Create a UCAS account, complete your application, and your application will automatically be eligible for Clearing. Give us a call and we can talk you through the next steps.

How many clearing choices can I have?

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You can only hold one Clearing choice in your UCAS Hub at any given time. You can contact multiple universities and receive informal offers before committing, but don’t add a choice to your UCAS Hub until you’ve received an offer from a university and you’re sure you want to accept it, as you won’t be able to add other courses while waiting for a response.

How do I add my clearing choice on UCAS?

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Your Clearing number is visible in your UCAS Hub once you’re eligible for Clearing. Find it under ‘Application status’. Once you’ve spoken to us and we’ve confirmed we would like to make you an offer, go to the ‘Your choices’ section of your UCAS Hub, click ‘Add Clearing choice’, and enter the course details. Only add a Clearing choice once we’ve confirmed you can do so.

For a full step-by-step guide, visit ucas.com/clearing.

What should I include in my portfolio?

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Our team would like to assess your potential quickly, so aim for 2–3 examples of work that best reflect you and your specific pathway. Quality over quantity, show us what you’re passionate about and what you do best.

How do I find accommodation this close to September?

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There are still plenty of options to explore. Our accommodation partner Amber specialises in student housing and is well placed to help you find somewhere to live.

Explore your options on the Accommodation Portal.