Clearing Options Open for A-Level Students

As A-Level results loom, many students are feeling the pressure. This Thursday promises answers for those awaiting their results, which could set the stage for their next steps.

After some ups and downs in exam performance during the pandemic, schools are returning to stricter grading standards this year. For students who don’t quite hit the grades they needed, there’s no need to panic just yet.

There’s a pathway known as Clearing. It’s a system designed for students to secure a spot at universities even if their grades weren’t what they had hoped for. If you missed your first-choice university, you can explore other options through this system.

Clearing officially started on July 5 and will remain open until October 21, although some universities might have different deadlines. On A-Level results day, the crucial window opens at 2pm for applicants to see if they can take another route to higher education.

Eligible students can find unfilled courses using UCAS’s platform. You will need your UCAS number, Clearing number, and some personal details at hand. Your Clearing number can be found on your UCAS Track, where you’ll see a message confirming your eligibility.

It’s advised to speak with universities over the phone to gauge any informal offers before making a final decision. Once you have the green light from a university, you can add your Clearing choice online.

Students should remember that they can only add one choice at a time, which means there’s no rush. If the university doesn’t confirm the place, you can always look for another option.

Keeping an eye on Clearing courses can be a game-changer since not all spots are filled immediately. Additionally, downloading the Clearing app might help you stay updated on your options.

Results day can be stressful, especially if it doesn’t go as planned. However, it’s essential to stay calm, make informed decisions, and prioritize your choices just as much as you did with your initial offers.

It might be a good idea to create a checklist identifying what you want from both a course and a university. If possible, visiting campuses or checking out virtual tours can give you a real feel for what’s available.

Diversifying your subject choices can also be beneficial. You might discover new interests or consider joint honors courses that let you explore multiple subjects.

Finally, understanding the structure of each course, its modules, and entry requirements will help you make the best decision for your future.