Clearing Explained: Your Step-by-Step Guide to University Entry

Did your exam results throw a curveball at your university plans? Missed the UCAS deadline? Or maybe you’ve had a complete change of heart and want to study something entirely different?

Take a deep breath. You’re not alone, and you’re definitely not out of options.
Welcome to Clearing: the flexible, empowering route that helps thousands of students in the UK each year find the right university place, even when things didn’t go according to plan.

In fact, over 50,000 students secure their university spots through Clearing annually. It’s not a last resort, it’s a legitimate, often life-changing opportunity to reassess, refocus, and reimagine your future. Whether you’re rethinking your course, switching universities, or just starting fresh, Clearing is your chance to take control of your academic journey.

And once you’ve found your new course? That’s where the next big decision comes in: student accommodation in UK. Finding the right place to live is just as important as choosing the right course. Your accommodation sets the tone for your university experience, it’s where you’ll study, relax, make friends, and build memories.

At Best Student Halls, we’ve helped thousands of students find their perfect home during the Clearing period. From last-minute room bookings to tailored advice on location and budget, we’re here to make sure your transition is smooth and stress-free.

So if your original plan didn’t work out, don’t panic. Clearing could be the unexpected twist that leads to your dream university, your ideal course, and the perfect place to call home.

Key Takeaways: Clearing Made Simple

• Clearing helps over 50,000 students every year

It’s the official UCAS system designed to match students without offers to universities with available places. Running from 5 July to 20 October 2025, Clearing is your chance to find a course that fits, even if your original plan didn’t pan out.

• It’s not just for students who “missed out”

Clearing is a smart, strategic option. Many students use it to upgrade to a better university, switch to a course they’re truly passionate about, or apply late after rethinking their goals. Whatever your reason, you’re not alone, and you’re not settling.

• Results Day is your launchpad

On 14 August, log into UCAS Hub from 8am to get your Clearing number. Have your results ready, research available courses, and start calling universities directly. Quick action can open up amazing opportunities.

• Accommodation? Sorted.

At Best Student Halls, Clearing students get the same priority as regular applicants. With guaranteed rooms, flexible move-in dates, and dedicated support for last-minute arrangements, finding student accommodation in UK doesn’t have to be stressful.

If you’re moving to the UK from abroad, don’t miss our helpful guide on settling in the UK for international students. It’s packed with tips to help you feel at home from day one.

What Clearing Really Is (Simple Version)

Think of Clearing as university speed dating. Universities have available spots. Students need places. UCAS Clearing steps in as the matchmaker.

How It Works in 30 Seconds:

• Universities list their available courses online
• Students call universities directly on Results Day
• Offers can be made instantly over the phone
• You accept one offer via your UCAS Hub
• You start university in September, just like everyone else

And when it comes to accommodation? Best Student Halls welcomes Clearing students with open arms. Your route to university doesn’t affect your room quality, treatment, or experience. In fact, we love working with Clearing students, you’re decisive, focused, and know exactly what you want.

Who Actually Uses Clearing?

Clearing isn’t just for students who didn’t meet their offers. It’s a flexible, strategic option used by all kinds of students. Here’s the reality:

Remember: If you’re entering Clearing, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed, it often means you’re about to discover an even better opportunity than you had originally planned.

Your Clearing Timeline (Don’t Stress!)

Here are the key dates that actually matter, and what to do at each stage:

Want a deeper breakdown of each stage? Read our blog on the clearing timeline to stay ahead of key dates and deadlines.

Tip: Book accommodation with Best Student Halls immediately after Results Day, we reserve rooms specifically for Clearing students.

Explore Offers: Looking for a great deal on student accommodation? Check out our offers page, where we’ve listed properties with exclusive discounts, including some tailored for Clearing students. Secure your room early and save big!

Feeling overwhelmed? Our blog on avoiding stress during clearing shares practical tips to stay calm, focused, and confident throughout the process.

Your Results Day Game Plan

Here’s how to stay ahead of the curve on August 14:

• 8:00 am – Results released online
• 8:15 am – Check your UCAS Hub for Clearing status
• 8:30 am – Call Best Student Halls Clearing hotline
• 9:00 am – University phone lines open
• 9:30 am – Start calling your target universities
• 12:00 pm – Most offers made by lunchtime
• 2:00 pm – Book your accommodation immediately
• 4:00 pm – Update your student finance
• 6:00 pm – Celebrate your university place!

Time-Saving Tip: Best Student Halls can confirm room availability while you’re still on calls with universities. Yes, we’re that fast. And if you don’t get placed at a university, you can cancel your booking without any charges. No stress, no risk, just flexibility when you need it most. 

How to Apply Through Clearing (It’s Easier Than You Think!)

Clearing might sound intense, but it’s actually a straightforward process, especially when you know what to expect. Here’s your step-by-step guide to navigating it like a pro.

Step 1: Check Your UCAS Status

On Results Day at 8am, log into your UCAS Hub and look for one of these key phrases:

• “You are in Clearing” – You’re eligible. Start applying now!
• “Clearing has started” – Same deal, go for it!
• No mention of Clearing? – Your offers might still be processing.

Quick Fix: If you don’t see a Clearing status but believe you should, call your chosen universities directly. Many accept students with grades slightly below their advertised requirements.

Step 2: Get Your Clearing Number

Your Clearing number will appear in your UCAS Hub. You’ll need it for every university conversation.

Before making calls, have these essentials ready:

• UCAS Personal ID + Clearing number
• Your exact exam results (subjects and grades)
• Key points from your personal statement
• Clear reasons for choosing each course
• Your Best Student Halls accommodation preferences

Moving soon? Don’t forget to check out our student checklist for moving to UK. It’s packed with practical tips, from packing essentials to setting up your bank account, so you can hit the ground running once your Clearing place is confirmed.

Step 3: Research Smart, Not Hard

Use the UCAS Clearing Search Tool, which updates hourly with real-time course availability.

Pro Search Strategy:

• Filter by your actual grades, be honest
• Explore similar subjects to your original choice
• Consider different cities (more Best Student Halls options!)
• Double-check entry requirements
• Read course descriptions carefully

Location Bonus: Best Student Halls has properties in 250+ UK universities. Expanding your city search gives you more flexibility and better chances.

Step 4: Make Those Calls Count

This is where Clearing gets real, you’ll be speaking directly to university admissions teams.

Sample Call Script:
“Hi, I’m interested in Clearing places for [course name]. My Clearing number is [number]. I achieved [grades], and I’m passionate about this course because [specific reason]. Are there any places available?”

Phone Success Tip: Be confident and enthusiastic, not desperate. Admissions teams respond well to genuine interest and clear communication.

Want a deeper dive into each step? Read our blog on how to navigate clearing for expert tips, timelines, and real student insights.

Clearing Myths vs Reality

Let’s bust some common myths and set the record straight:

Looking for the perfect place to live while studying abroad? Don’t miss our guide on the steps to find accommodation abroad. It’s packed with practical tips to help you choose the right location, budget smartly, and settle in with confidence, whether you’re applying through Clearing or not.

Stress-Reduction Tips

• Start researching options before Results Day
• Identify backup courses in advance
• Accept that Clearing is normal, thousands of students use it
• Remember: Clearing can lead to better outcomes than your original plan
• Lean on support systems, family, school advisors, and Best Student Halls are here to help

Best Student Halls: Your Clearing Accommodation Solution

Why We’re the Perfect Fit for Clearing Students

Clearing moves fast, and so do we. At Best Student Halls, we’ve built our entire system around speed, flexibility, and support to make sure you land the right accommodation without the stress.

Need help choosing the right place? Our blog on things to consider when choosing accommodation in UK walks you through everything from location and budget to facilities and safety, so you can make a confident, informed decision.

Struggling to find a room quickly? Our blog on how to find last-minute accommodation for clearing offers practical tips and strategies to help you secure a great space, even under pressure.

Here’s our Clearing Promise:

Parent Peace of Mind: We’ve successfully housed over 1,200 Clearing students. No matter how your child got their university place, they’ll receive the same high-quality accommodation and support as everyone else.

Want to avoid common pitfalls? Check out our guide on costly mistakes students make when booking accommodation. It’s a must-read for anyone booking during the Clearing rush.

Quick Financial Guide for Clearing Students

Student Finance Checklist

Accepting a Clearing offer means updating your student finance details. Here’s what to do:

• Update university name and course info online
• Confirm tuition fee amounts
• Adjust your maintenance loan if you’re moving cities
• Submit all changes before your term begins

Money Tip: Our pricing stays consistent for Clearing students. No hidden fees, no “urgent booking” surcharges, just transparent, student-friendly rates.

Read our blog on student finance during Clearing to understand how it affects your funding, deadlines, and what support is available.

Want to budget smarter? Use our cost of living calculator to estimate your monthly expenses based on city, lifestyle, and accommodation type. It’s a must-have tool for planning ahead.

New to UK finances? Don’t miss our UK money guide for students, packed with tips on managing your budget, understanding student loans, and avoiding common financial pitfalls.

Accommodation Cost Reality Check

Here’s how Best Student Halls compares to other last-minute options:

Bonus: We offer flexible payment plans that align with student finance timelines, so there’s no pressure for large upfront deposits.

Looking for budget-friendly options? Check out our guide on affordable accommodation in UK, where we break down cost-effective choices without compromising on comfort or location.

Want to stretch your student budget further? Don’t miss our blog on budgeting tips for UK students, packed with practical advice to help you manage your money wisely while enjoying university life.

Your Clearing Action Plan

Whether you're preparing ahead or diving into Clearing right now, this guide will help you stay calm, focused, and ready to make the most of every opportunity.

Before Results Day (Start Now!)

Smart preparation makes all the difference:

• Research 5–10 backup universities and courses
• Check Best Student Halls availability near your target cities
• Practice your “phone pitch” with family or friends
• Prepare thoughtful questions to ask universities
• Set up a quiet, organised workspace for Results Day calls

Prep pays off: Students who research backup options before Results Day are 3x more likely to secure their preferred Clearing choice.

Are you applying from abroad? Our blog on tips for international students using clearing in the UK covers everything from visa timelines to choosing the right accommodation, so you can feel confident and prepared.

On Results Day (August 14)

Your hour-by-hour game plan:

• 8:00 am – Check your exam results and UCAS status
• 8:30 am – Call the Best Student Halls Clearing hotline
• 9:00 am – Start calling universities in order of preference
• 11:00 am – Make decisions and accept your offer
• 1:00 pm – Confirm your accommodation with Best Student Halls
• 3:00 pm – Update your student finance details
• 5:00 pm – Inform your family and celebrate!

Day-of tip: Book your accommodation immediately after accepting your offer. The best rooms go to students who act fast.

After Clearing Success

Your Week 1 checklist:

• Complete university enrollment requirements
• Finalise your Best Student Halls contract
• Update bank details and your new address
• Join the course and accommodation social groups
• Plan what to pack vs what to buy locally

Settling-in bonus: Best Student Halls communities welcome Clearing students with open arms. You’ll feel right at home from day one.

Need help setting up your finances? Check out our blog on UK student bank accounts for everything you need to know before you arrive.

Why Parents Love Best Student Halls for Clearing

Peace of Mind During Stressful Times

Common parent concerns:

• “Will my child get decent accommodation?”
• “Are they being taken advantage of?”
• “Will they be treated as second-class?”
• “Is the quality going to be poor?”

How Best Student Halls responds:

• Same room standards for all students
• Transparent pricing, no Clearing surcharges
• Equal treatment and full support services
• Proven track record with 1,200+ Clearing students
• Dedicated support team for Clearing families

Communication bonus: We keep parents informed throughout the process, while respecting your child’s independence.

The Numbers Don’t Lie

Best Student Halls Clearing student outcomes:

• 96% satisfaction with accommodation experience
• 91% recommend us to other Clearing students
• 88% renewal rate for subsequent years
• 94% report less stress after securing accommodation
• 87% achieve better academic results than expected

Your Next Steps Start Here

If You’re Preparing for Clearing:

• Start researching now, don’t wait for Results Day chaos
• Contact Best Student Halls to check availability in your target cities
• Prepare mentally, Clearing often leads to better outcomes
• Practice your calls, confidence comes through preparation
• Stay positive, 50,000+ students succeed through Clearing every year

If You’re in Clearing Right Now:

• Check UCAS immediately: confirm your Clearing status
• Call Best Student Halls first: secure your accommodation
• Contact universities: top opportunities go fast
• Make decisions quickly: indecision costs chances
• Celebrate your success: you’re going to university!

Final confidence boost: Clearing students often end up happier than those who got their first choices. Trust the process and embrace the opportunity, it might just be the best decision you ever make.

Clearing Isn’t a Backup: It’s a Breakthrough

If your results didn’t go as planned, don’t panic. Clearing is not a detour, it’s a fast track to discovering a university and course that might suit you even better than your original choice. Thousands of students each year find their perfect fit through Clearing, and many go on to thrive academically and socially.

Whether you're rethinking your path, applying late, or simply looking for a fresh start, Clearing gives you the power to take control of your future. With the right mindset, a solid game plan, and trusted support, you can turn uncertainty into opportunity.