What is Clearing?
In 2023, a total of 38,140 students secured their university places through Clearing (UCAS, 2023), up from 33,280 in 2022, so it’s worth knowing about if you’re looking to go to university this September.
The Clearing system is used by UCAS and UK universities at the end of the academic year to fill courses that still have spaces left on them. However, rather than filling spaces on courses that nobody wants, Clearing is now being used by more and more prospective students as it provides more choice and greater flexibility.
Who is Clearing for?
Clearing is for those who have just completed their A Levels and/or BTEC qualifications but have changed their minds about what they’d like to study, or achieved higher grades than expected, or didn’t meet their firm or insurance offer requirements. It’s important to know that even if you don’t meet your firm or insurance offer requirements, it doesn’t automatically mean you enter Clearing. Make sure you check the UCAS Hub on results day; you may find that you’ve still been given a place, or that a decision has not been made yet. If that’s the case, we recommend you give that university a call.
You can also apply through Clearing if you’re applying after 30 June, or if you haven’t accepted any offers yet.
People who have been out of education for a while and are ready to begin a new career or just pursue something they’re passionate about can also use Clearing. So, if you’re thinking about returning to education but are not sure if you meet the requirements, please contact our mature student adviser, Vicki Riley, via email at v.riley@chester.ac.uk to discuss your options, or you can complete our online form and we will be in touch. We also offer Foundation Years for those who wish to complete an undergraduate course but do not have the necessary academic qualifications to enter directly onto the first year.
So, Clearing is for prospective students in a range of different circumstances and it’s a brilliant opportunity to find the perfect university and course for you. There are lots of universities to choose from and a wide selection of courses; take a look at our A-Z Clearing Course Listing to find a course that you’re passionate about. At the University of Chester, we’re a community so studying with us will feel like home away from home – it won’t take you long to find your people and find your place here.
When is Clearing?
Most of the action around Clearing happens on results day. However, Clearing is open for over three months, so you have time to find the right university and course to suit you. This year, Clearing is open from 5th July – 21st October.
At the University of Chester, you can contact us by telephone on 01244 567 470 or via email at clearing@chester.ac.uk
During the Clearing period, our lines are open Monday to Thursday from 9am to 5.30pm, and on a Friday from 9am to 4.30pm. However, we have extended hours on the following days:
Thursday 15th August: 8am – 7pm
Friday 16th August: 8am – 6pm
Saturday 17th August: 9am – 5pm
Sunday 18th August: 10am – 4pm
Saturday 24th August: 9am – 5pm
How can I find out more information about Clearing?
To find out more, you can register for Clearing updates. You can also take a look at our How to Apply Through Clearing step-by-step guide.
There are lots of opportunities to visit us and ask questions in person. Come along to our Open Day on Saturday 6th July. We'll also be holding Clearing Visit Days over the summer (see locations and dates below), where you’ll be able to attend a subject-specific session and meet staff from your course, plus take a student-led tour of our campus facilities.
Chester
- Friday 16th Aug
- Saturday 17th Aug
- Wednesday 21st Aug
- Wednesday 28th Aug
- Wednesday 4th Sept
University Centre Birkenhead
- Monday 19th August
University Centre Warrington
- Saturday 17th August
- Thursday 22nd Aug
- Wednesday 28th Aug
- Thursday 5th September
Clearing Visit Days will be available to book soon, but if you would like more information please contact:
T: 01244 512800
Each year, hundreds of students join the University of Chester through Clearing. We feature Ahmet’s Clearing story, Erin’s Clearing story and Zuzanna's Clearing story, so you can find out more about some of our students who applied through Clearing, and how a change of plan can lead to an amazing university experience.