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Clearing FAQs

Find the answer to any questions you might have about Clearing

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​At University of Gloucestershire, we come across lots of misconceptions about what Clearing is and who it’s for.

We’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions for Clearing to help you understand the process before you apply to university.

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Whether you’re applying yourself, or you know someone who’s thinking about UCAS Clearing, get support online and register for the very latest Clearing updates.

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Received an offer through Clearing? View our step-by-step guide on what to do next.

What is Clearing?

Clearing enables you to gain a place at university if you haven’t yet secured one and takes place between July and October each year.

It’s a great opportunity if you’ve missed the conditions of your offer, or had a last minute change of heart about the university or course you want to study.

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How does UCAS Clearing work?

From 5 July to 30 September, you can apply for a course through UCAS Clearing with us if you meet the following criteria:

Take a look at our clearing course list and identify any that take your interest.

Get in touch with us via telephone or live chat.

What does Clearing mean?

If you’ve heard someone mention ‘Clearing’, they’re probably referring to the process by which universities and colleges fill any places they still have on their courses between July and October each year.

If you want to apply to study at university after 30 June, you can still apply through the UCAS Clearing service for a number of courses​.

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When does Clearing start?

Clearing starts on 5 July, so if you’re submitting an application after 30 June, you will be applying through the UCAS Clearing service. Clearing courses are usually published at the beginning of July.

What time does Clearing open?

The clearing service provided by UCAS opens at the beginning of July each year, and our Clearing hotline is open Monday – Friday, 9am until 5pm.

When does Clearing close?

Clearing runs until mid-October, giving you plenty of time to apply for the course​ of your choice.

What are Clearing courses?

Clearing courses are the undergraduate courses that are accepting Clearing applications. Not all of the undergraduate courses we offer are open during Clearing, so it’s important to check that the course you want to apply for is still accepting applications.

View Clearing courses

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When are Clearing places published?

A number of our undergraduate courses accept applications during Clearing, and these courses are published at the beginning of July each year. If you’re ready to apply for university before Clearing opens, you may be able to submit a late application for your chosen course, or apply through UCAS Extra.

Which universities have Clearing places?

Many universities and colleges accept applications for courses during Clearing, including the University of Gloucestershire. Visit the UCAS website to find out more about Clearing, or view our Clearing courses​​.

WHat if my grades are lower than expected?

Don’t worry about your results. We’ll look at the complete picture when it comes to your application and may be able to offer you a place even if you don’t meet the entry requirements specified on the course page. 

We also offer a integrated foundation year within some of our degrees, this allows you to develop essential study skills and also gain an introduction to your chosen subject area. Discover our integrated foundation degrees.

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Who can apply through Clearing?

Many students are eligible to apply to university through Clearing. This may be because a student hasn’t received the grades they were hoping for on results day, or they have only recently decided to apply to university.

All students who apply to university after 30 June will automatically be entered into the Clearing process by UCAS.

Where is my UCAS Clearing number?

If you applied to university through Clearing, then you will be automatically given a Clearing number from UCAS. You will usually receive this in the form of a ‘welcome email’ once you have submitted your application through UCAS. 

This will include your UCAS Clearing number and details on how to access your application through ‘UCAS Hub’ (a system that allows users to log in and track the status of your application). 

It’s important to make a note of your UCAS Clearing number before making enquiries, as we will ask for this number when you apply through Clearing. 

Does applying through Clearing affect my student loan?

It’s not too late to apply for student finance if you’re applying to university through Clearing. If you’ve previously applied to university before Clearing, you will need to update your student finance application to make sure that the details are correct.

If you haven’t yet applied for student finance, it’s important to make your application as soon as possible to ensure you receive your student loan when you start your course. Contact our money advice team if you have any questions about your student finance application.

Contact our Money Advice Team for support.

Can I still apply for accommodation during Clearing?

There are many accommodation options still available to you if you’re applying to university through Clearing, and our accommodation team are used to helping students who have applied through Clearing.

View our Clearing accommodation information to find out more information about applying for accommodation during Clearing.​

How can I stay updated?

You can register for Clearing updates with us and we will keep you up to date on the latest Clearing news.

How can I get in touch?

There are many ways to get in touch with our Clearing team. Call us on 03330 432 414 or chat to us on live chat (accessed by the chat icon in the bottom right).

Useful Clearing resources