So far, 2020 has been a year like no other. With results day just around the corner, it may be hard for you to know what to expect. Perhaps you’re debating whether or not you still want the same thing.
Which is why, now more than ever, it’s okay to revisit your options and keep an open mind. Choosing to go to university is a big decision so, if it’s something you’d still like to do, there’s no harm in taking your time in figuring out which university would be right for you.
If you would like to keep your options open, Clearing can help you do just that. Here’s what you need to know:
There’s lots of reasons people choose to apply through Clearing
It may be that you’ve simply changed your mind, you got higher grades than you were expecting, you didn’t quite meet the conditions of a Firm or Insurance offer, or perhaps you’re wanting to return to education after having some time out. Clearing is there for people with a range of different circumstances. This year, the COVID-19 pandemic may have brought about questions surrounding whether or not you would like to move location, change university or even opt for a different course. If you’re thinking about starting university in September, it’s natural that the unprecedented events of this year have made you want to look twice at your options. It’s a big decision planning any aspect of your future and there’s no harm in taking your time.
Dates for the Diary
Clearing is open 6th July – 20th October 2020.
It’s open for quite a while! You can apply through Clearing once you have your results. For the majority, this will be any time after Results Day but if you happen to have had a year out and are thinking of applying to university this year, you can apply any time from 6th July. If you’re already thinking that Clearing could be an option for you – whether you’re worried about your results or having a change of heart – you don’t have to secure a place at a university by the end of Results Day. Clearing is open until 20th October so, whilst we do encourage you to try and secure your place sooner rather than later, you’re not limited to a 24-hour window on Results Day. There is extra time there if needed.
Not got the grades you needed? You may not necessarily be in Clearing.
If on Results Day you haven’t got the grades you needed for your Firm or Insurance choices, don’t panic, there’s no need to pick up the phone and start calling other universities just yet. We advise that the first thing you do is check UCAS Track, as your Firm or Insurance universities may have still given you a place. There is also the possibility that they haven’t made a decision yet. If that’s the case, it’s best to give them a call and tell them exactly why you should have a place at that university. If your application is then declined, don’t be disheartened. Get yourself onto the UCAS website and have a good look at what is available through Clearing.
Clearing Plus – A New Feature
The idea of Clearing may sound quite overwhelming – especially when considering just how many different courses and universities are out there. That’s why UCAS have introduced a new feature – Clearing Plus – designed to match unplaced applicants with relevant courses that have vacancies. Clearing Plus will make navigating the options available to you through Clearing much easier. When you find a course that interests you, you can simply click a button that passes your details to the institution and they will then get in touch with you if they have places available. Keep in mind that it’s still incredibly important to do your research and find out what you are specifically looking for from your university experience. It will also be helpful if you’re looking at places available through Clearing if you have a good idea of what matters most to your decision. Who knows though, Clearing Plus could show you a university or course that you’ve not considered before but could be exactly what you’re looking for.
Get September sorted.
It’s important to remember that people apply through Clearing for a number of different reasons, it’s open for quite a while, not a few days, lower grades don’t mean you’re automatically in Clearing and this year there’s a new feature designed to help you with your search.
Keep in mind that, given the circumstances this year, it’s completely normal to be feeling slightly apprehensive about what’s happening in September. You’re in a situation now where you can take control. If you’re feeling like you’re lacking important information about your chosen university for September, get in contact with them and ask the all-important questions. Their answers will either reassure you or make you want to reconsider your options. Either way, it’s important for you to get September sorted.
