Things don't always run smoothly with university applications and some students will need to use the UCAS Clearing system to try and find a college place before the start of the academic year. What is Clearing, how does it work and when can it be accessed?
What is UCAS University Clearing?
The UCAS Clearing list gives students without a place at university for the coming academic year the chance to find a course that may suit them. Those that haven't got high enough grades to meet a conditional offer, for example, may need to look for another course and university via the system. Some may have come through the application process without an offer; others may simply be applying later than the norm. Late applications (after June 30th 2010) will not go to universities but into Clearing.
How Does University Clearing Work?
The UCAS list brings together the places that are available for the start of the next academic year. Students that have used UCAS to apply for college before the 20th September are eligible to use Clearing. Those that miss this date will have to approach universities directly.
Students using the system will need their Clearing number from their site account when they talk to universities or colleges that have listed places. This number gives an institution access to applications. If a provisional offer is given, then the student must enter details into their account so that UCAS can contact the college/university. If the offer is confirmed, then they are good to go; if not, then the process will start over.
When Does UCAS Clearing Start?
The Clearing list is available from July to September each year. It is, however, used most in August when results are released and place availability is assessed. Places tend to be added to the UCAS website between the middle of August and late September as universities assess whether they have places to be filled.
The site states that Scottish vacancies will be released on the 5th of August when Highers/Advanced Highers results come out. English places will be on site on the morning of the 19th of August when A Level results are released. Bear in mind that the list may change over time as places are filled and as new ones are added.
What is UCAS Adjustment?
Some students that get better results than expected (or even those that simply meet the criteria of a conditional offer) can use the UCAS Adjustment service if they wish. This allows them to 'shop around' to see if there are better course or college options on offer.
Full details of the Clearing list and the Adjustment process can be found on the UCAS website.
Source: UCAS
Students leaving home for university for the first time may also find the following articles helpful:
Budgeting for Students: A Free Student Budget Planner May Help
Student Money: Finding the Best Bank Accounts & Credit Cards
Money Saving Tips for Students
Save Money With Student Discounts, Vouchers, Cards & Offers
Student Discount Cards: NUS Extra Can Save Money at University
Carol Finch - Carol Finch is the Topic Editor for Retirement Planning, Budgeting, E-Commerce & Technical/Business Writing on Suite101.
Join the Conversation