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What is clearing?

Have questions about clearing? Here is your complete guide to University clearing for 2025 applicants

What is Clearing

What is Clearing?

University Clearing is a process run by UCAS that helps you find and apply for undergraduate university courses that still have space available.

There are a number of reasons why you may choose to apply through Clearing. It might be that you did not receive any offers, you did not get the grades, you may be applying late, or have simply changed your mind about what to study. Whatever the reason, applying through Clearing can help you start your higher education journey, and get you onto a course you want to study. 

Who is eligible for clearing?

You are eligible for Clearing if are a home or international student, and: 

  • You are applying after 30 June
  • You haven't received any offers
  • You received offers, but have declined them
  • You didn't meet the conditions of your offers

Clearing for international students 

You can apply through clearing if you are an international student. The Clearing process works in the same way as for UK students, but there are a few differences:

  • Visa documentation - You may need a Student Route Visa to apply. Read more about the student visa process, and contact us if you would like to discuss this further.
  • Earlier exam results - You may receive exam results much earlier than UK results day (14 August). The International Baccalaureate (IB) will get exam results on 6 July. This offers you an additional benefit of securing you place earlier, and as more places are likely to be available. 
How does Clearing work?

How does clearing work?

There are several steps to follow to apply through Clearing. Read How to Prepare for Clearing for more information, or see this summary:

  1. Research your options - Explore our Find Your Course page to see which courses are available in clearing, and learn more about what you could be studying. 
  2. Contact us - Once you've decided which courses would suit you, speak to an advisor so we can discuss your situation. Use our live chat, email us or phone us on 0208 411 5555
  3. Get an offer - If you are eligible and the course is available, we will give you an offer.
  4. Add the Clearing choice onto UCAS - Once you have accepted your offer, update your UCAS application with the course details. 

UCAS Clearing timeline for 2025

  • 5 July

    Clearing opens

  • 6 July

    International Baccalaureate (IB) exam results day

  • 14 August

    A Level (and BTEC) results day

  • 21 August

    GCSE results day

  • 24 September

    Final day for 2025 UCAS undergraduate applications

  • 20 October

    Clearing closes

Popular courses

Clearing at Middlesex University

Middlesex offers a wide range of undergraduate courses through Clearing every year. Find your course and soon you could be joining our inclusive community at Middlesex, accessing state-of-the-art facilities, and on a path to a successful career. 

Popular courses

Whilst many of our excellent courses will be popular during clearing, a few are likely to close soon after results day (14 August). Make you act quickly to secure your spot on one of these courses: 

  • Business Management 
  • Computer Science 
  • Medical Sciences
  • Nursing and Midwifery 
  • Psychology 
  • Law 
Clearing myths

Common myths about clearing

There are many myths and misconceptions around clearing and it often causes confusion and worry. Here we set the facts straight so you can understand more

False. There are a range of reasons why students will choose to apply through clearing. They may have changed their mind about their course or university, have applied late. Of course, if you don't get the grades or have not received any offers, you can also apply through clearing. 

False. Clearing is a good opportunity to change your mind, research other courses and apply for something that better suits you. View our courses to explore what is on offer. 

False. Whilst clearing does move quickly, if you prepare in advance you will have time to make the right decision for you and your future. Middlesex offers support and guidance every step of the way. 

False. Middlesex offer a variety of student accommodation for you to choose from.  

False. Our clearing students have excellent outcomes. Take a look at our clearing stories to take a look at the paths our clearing students have taken, and the successes they have achieved.