How do I prepare for Clearing and results day?

Unifrog’s Clearing tool is live from 5 July! Get ready for UK results day on 17 August by exploring the tool now and shortlisting the courses you’re interested in.
 

First, think again about your options

There are lots of alternatives to going to university, so have a think about what you might like to do if you don’t quite meet your offers or if you change your mind.

You could, for example:

• take a foundation year or ask your teachers about resitting your exams
• start looking for jobs or opportunities abroad
• apply for an apprenticeship in the subject you were thinking of studying at university

Whether you decide to use Clearing or find an alternative to university, remember that this should be your choice.
 

Start using Unifrog’s Clearing tool

Get ready for Clearing, even if you’re confident of your decision and the results you’re expecting. This will help you prepare for a change of heart or any unexpected results (higher or lower) on the day.

Clearing opens on Wednesday 5 July. On this date, Unifrog’s Clearing tool goes live!

Just like with Unifrog’s university shortlisting tools, you’ll be able to filter, rank, and search to find the right course for you. Remember to always check that vacancies are still live by calling the university or checking their website—places in Clearing change quickly, and universities will always be the best place to find the most up-to-date information.
 

What happens on results day?

Whether you’re going into school or college, or getting your results online, get up as early as you can and check them. Results are available from 8am and however nervous you are, having them earlier puts you in a much better position if you do want to use Clearing. Thousands of students across the country use the system and competitive courses fill up quickly.
 

Get your documents ready

If you’re going into school or college to collect your results, you may need to bring your student ID card and/or another form of ID.

To use Clearing, you’ll need:

• your UCAS login, Clearing number, and personal ID
• your list of alternatives from the courses you favourited on Unifrog's Clearing tool
• your exam results (including your GCSE or National 4 or 5 results)
• your Personal Statement
• your questions for the admissions team

You can use Unifrog’s Clearing tool or the shortlists you made previously to find the contact information for universities.
 

Prep for an interview

You must contact the university you most want to go to first! You can only accept one offer through Clearing, so contact your universities in order of preference. 

You’ll speak to an admissions tutor from the university you’re applying to. They might ask you interview-style questions, or book you an interview before they offer you a place. Practise answers to general questions like:

• Why do you want to study this subject?
• Why do you want to study at this university?
• What makes you a suitable candidate?

Dig out your Personal Statement to help prep your answers.

Don’t forget, this is your chance to ask the admissions team your questions too! Check the university website doesn’t already have the answers you’re looking for. You could ask about virtual campus tours, for example, or student or graduate case studies available to read.
 

Want more advice on navigating Clearing—including what to do if your results are higher or lower than expected? If you have a Unifrog account, you can check out all our guides on results day and Clearing in our Know-how library series.