Applying through Clearing without UCAS

What is Clearing?

Clearing is a way of matching students with universities that still have unallocated course places available. It’s like a second chance or second round. To use Clearing you need to have your exam results and either no firm offers or have declined your firm place.

The usual way to take part in Clearing is through UCAS, by registering your application, getting a unique Clearing number, and using their online portal, UCAS Hub.

Clearing 2025 is open from 5 July and closes on 20 October.

Can I apply through Clearing without UCAS?

Yes. It is not the typical way to go through Clearing, but you do have another option if you prefer.

How do I apply for Clearing without UCAS?

If you decide that you don’t want to use UCAS, you can apply to a university directly. Not many universities offer this alternative, so you’ll need to check first by contacting the admissions team.

If this route is available, you’ll be asked to provide more information like a personal statement, your grades, and a reference. It’s a good idea to ask your own questions too to make sure it’s the course for you.

The university may then make you an offer which you can accept using a record of prior acceptance form. The form replaces the UCAS system although the university accepting you will still record your place via UCAS, on your behalf. Be sure before you accept an offer, as you won’t be able to apply for another course once agreed.

Pros and cons of applying for Clearing without UCAS

Pros

• It’s a direct route that could work if you’ve missed key UCAS deadlines and the university wants you.
• Clearing without UCAS could cut out the stress of using the online system as courses are snapped up quickly this way.

Cons

• Many universities don’t accept direct applications, so you’ll be significantly reducing your options.
• UCAS discourages it and it's perhaps a more complicated way of getting a place.

Why apply for Clearing without UCAS?

According to an article written in 2020, 41,000 students applied through Clearing that year without UCAS. The reasons are varied. It might be that you’re a late applicant or a mature student re-entering education. Perhaps you’re an overseas student with a more complicated route into UK universities that doesn’t fit the UCAS deadlines. Whatever the reason, it doesn’t matter what route you took to get it, the achievement of getting a student place is the same.