can i change my personal statement on ucas clearing

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Clearing and results day FAQs

Your frequently asked questions on results day and clearing answered, and advice on what to do if things don’t turn out as you’d hoped..

Results day FAQs

Clearing faqs, clearing and results day faqs for parents.

Results day can be an emotional time and it can be hard to organise all the thoughts and questions you may have.

How should you prepare for results day?

Whatever your expectations, you should have a contingency plan in place. 

Carefully consider all your options, including resitting your exams, deferring, taking a gap year, or reapplying next year. 

If you're feeling nervous, talk to people who've experienced results day already, whether that’s a parent, older sibling, friend, or teacher. 

Read our FAQs and take a look at our results day and Clearing page  for more info.

How do you check if you have a place at university?

The best way is to regularly check your UCAS Hub. 

UCAS Hub updates as soon as updates are received from universities. This tends to be at around 8:30 am, but be ready from 8 am on results day. Even if you don't get the grades you need, you should check your UCAS Hub first as you may still be offered a place. 

Remember to have your password and ID number for UCAS Hub at hand and check your email inbox isn’t full and can accept bulk emails. Many universities will send confirmation messages automatically to a list of their applicants. 

What should you do if you're away for results day?

Our advice is never be away on results day, but if unavoidable there are measures you can take. 

Make arrangements with your school to get access to your results if you can't get them online. You should also check your UCAS Hub as soon as possible on results day. If you need to go through Clearing, don’t leave it till you get back to contact universities as this could reduce your options significantly. 

You’ve got your expected results and met the entry requirements of your Conditional Firm (CF) choice. Do you need to do anything on results day?

Congratulations! You should have a place at your first-choice university. 

Still check UCAS Hub for peace of mind, especially if you have an offer expressed in UCAS points rather than grades. Once Hub confirms you’ve met the conditions of your offer, wait for the confirmation email from your university. Check that the university has the right email address and that your inbox is set up to receive messages from them. 

If you have any questions for your university, it’s best to wait until the following week to contact them as they’ll be extremely busy for the first few days after results come out.   Once you've celebrated, you can start thinking about preparing to go to university. 

You just missed out on your Conditional Firm (CF) choice. Is it worth calling them to see if they’ll still offer you a place?

Yes, it's worth contacting them, but be aware it may not change anything. 

This will usually mean the course is full, but it’s worth calling to see if anyone decides not to take their offer. The university may be able to offer you an alternative, similar course, for example via joint honours or with a foundation year. 

You haven’t achieved the grades needed for your chosen university. What can you do? 

Stay positive! You have a number of options. You could find an alternative course or university via Clearing and can read more about this below in our Clearing FAQs. 

Alternatively, you might consider resitting your exams or taking a gap year.

What if you want to appeal your A Level results?

Some students will be unhappy with what they were awarded, but there are options. Read more about how to appeal your A Level results and find out the best course of action. 

• Choosing a course
• Choosing a university

Clearing is available for students who don't get their required grades, don't receive an offer, haven't yet applied or have chosen to self-release.

What's UCAS Clearing? How does Clearing work?

UCAS Clearing is a way of matching universities without students to students without a university place. 

Clearing can be used by almost any potential student, whether applying late or for strategic reasons – for example, trading up to a university you initially thought you wouldn't get into.   

Who can use UCAS Clearing and Clearing self-release?

All students are eligible. It’s most often used by those who haven't got the grades needed to secure their place, those who applied later, those who got no offers or those who don’t want to take the place they’ve been offered. 

UCAS applications received after the 30 June deadline, or students who miss their grade target, are automatically entered into Clearing. 

Self-release allows students who are already holding a university place to release themselves into Clearing rather than wait for their original choice of university to release them. Self-release is available in UCAS Hub from July onwards. 

Those who haven't yet applied to any universities can also apply through Clearing once they have their results. However, you'll need to have completed a UCAS application to use Clearing. 

You can apply online through UCAS Apply. Don't forget you'll need a reference as well as your personal statement. 

Is there a difference for international students in Clearing? 

You should aim to go through this process as quickly and early as possible, as there are some differences in applying through Clearing for international students. 

You may have to apply for a student visa. This can take time if there are lots of people applying at the same time. 

You might have to take some tests such as a language assessment to secure a place. Your university may also ask to have an interview with you. Ask each university directly what they need as it'll vary depending on where you're from and the university you’re going to. 

If you're taking International Baccalaureate exams, you'll have an advantage over UK students when using Clearing. This is because most UK students don't get exam results until August. 

To find out more read our Clearing advice for international and EU students 

What's the best way to approach Clearing?

A positive attitude can go a long way to being successful in Clearing. Make a list of universities with available courses that you’d consider, their phone numbers and email addresses. Think about what you might say beforehand and make notes if you need to. 

It’s important to make the call yourself rather than asking someone to do this on your behalf, unless you have a disability that necessitates this. When you call universities, be positive about yourself and the university. Remember you're competing for places with other students.

Be prepared to say why you want to study that particular course at that particular institution and what you can offer. Be ready to answer questions on your exam results, your motivation and your experience. Staff want to feel confident that you want to study there and that you’re not choosing them out of desperation. Prepare your own questions to ask them too.

Getting a place through Clearing isn't as difficult as it sounds, and you may be surprised at the number of vacancies. However, depending on your results there'll be some courses and universities that'll be unattainable, and recognising this early on will save you a lot of time. 

Read our top tips for preparing for a Clearing call.

What are the Clearing dates?

UCAS Clearing runs from 5 July until 21 October 2024 .

While you can't apply through Clearing until you have your results, you should avoid being in Clearing all the way up to the October deadline. The longer you leave it, the fewer places will be available. 

See the full breakdown of this year's  application deadlines .

How will you know if you're in Clearing?

Your UCAS Hub status will say ‘you are in Clearing’ or ‘Clearing has started’. 

If you didn’t match the entry requirements but your Hub status doesn't say you’re in Clearing, it could mean your results haven't been updated or the universities are still considering your application. 

Which universities accept students through Clearing?

There’s a stereotype associated with Clearing that only less prestigious universities will have spaces available. This isn't true. The university places available through Clearing varies each year based on which courses have places still to fill. 

Can you reject your insurance offer and go through Clearing instead?

Yes, you can now self-release yourself into Clearing.

You no longer have to wait to be released by your insurance choice, but can do it yourself, saving valuable time.

• Guide to UCAS Clearing
• Appealing your A Level results

Can you change your mind about your course and go through Clearing instead? 

You can. You'll need to get in touch with the uni you originally applied to and ask to be released (make sure you do this as soon as you can). After they release you, you'll be entered into Clearing. 

Will universities go below their usual entry requirements during Clearing?

Within the context of Clearing, they may well go lower than the offer listed on their prospectus. It depends on how much demand each university and course have, as well as the grades of other interested students. The best way to find out is to ask the universities directly.  

• University entry requirements

If you get multiple offers through Clearing, can you put them all into UCAS Track?

You can only add one Clearing choice at a time. If the university doesn't confirm your place, you can then add another. 

You’ve applied for deferred entry to university and have been unsuccessful with both your Conditional Firm (CF) and Conditional Insurance (CI) choices. Can you go through Clearing or will you have to reapply?

You can go through Clearing, but not to apply for a deferred place. 

Typically, you can only use Clearing to secure a place on a course for the upcoming academic year. However, if you want to enquire further, it’s worth calling the university to at least ask. 

Is it true you can't enter Clearing until you've been declined by your choices?

Not at all. 

You'll automatically be entered into the Clearing process if you don't get an offer from either your CF or CI choices. 

You didn’t meet either of your offers but the universities haven’t declined yet. What should you do?

Call the universities to check the status of your application. 

It may be that some results are missing, or you haven't met the grades and universities are placing near misses such as yourself to see who they can take. They could also be waiting for other candidates' results to come in before deciding. 

The UCAS system can take time to update. If it hasn't been updated later in the day, make a start on your plan B and start calling a few universities with Clearing vacancies.  

You can’t get through using the hotline number. What should you do?

Be patient. Unfortunately, this is the reality of Clearing! 

University hotlines will be extremely busy but persevere and you’ll get through eventually. You could also try emailing or contacting on social media, but calling is likely to be the quickest and most direct route – even if it doesn't feel like it. 

You'd like to go through Clearing but haven’t applied yet. When's the deadline for Clearing and can you still apply through it?

You can still apply but you'll need to get organised. 

You’ll need to complete the UCAS application as normal, including a personal statement. You can’t add course choices but once registered, you’ll get an email with a link to UCAS Hub and your Clearing number. 

• Tips for writing your perfect personal statement

Does going through Clearing affect getting your student loan?

If you've already applied for funding but changed your course or university, you need to update your details as soon as possible. 

If you've made your first application through Clearing and haven't applied for finance yet, you need to apply now to give yourself the best possible chance of getting your first loan in time for starting your course. 

There's a possibility you won't get your loan in time for the start of the year. 

How do you find accommodation while going through Clearing?

If the course and university are right, go for it and think about accommodation later. But if you've got a few options, accommodation availability could be a useful way to decide where to go. 

You’ll need to stay relaxed and be prepared to compromise. If the university you want to go to has run out of spaces in the type of accommodation you’re after, then you'll have to think about what's more important to you: your university or where you live. 

Be proactive. Go to house viewings, keep ringing the accommodation providers or estate agents, get onto social media groups to find potential housemates, and do your research. The accommodation you end up in can have a major bearing on your first-year experience, so it's worth putting in the effort to find somewhere right for you. 

• Student accommodation
• Student halls and houses
• How much does uni accommodation cost?
• Student housing: private sector

How long does your child have to find a course through Clearing? 

The last day to add a Clearing choice and for universities to accept Clearing applicants in 2024 is 17 October . However, your child should aim to get a place through Clearing as quickly as possible as spaces will be filled quickly. 

What steps does your child need to take between results day and starting university? 

Once your child has secured a place at university, there’s some serious preparation to be done before they start. 

The main things they'll need to sort out are finances and accommodation. These aren’t the most exciting tasks, but they're important. Your child should also open a student bank account – most major banks offer these with varying incentives, so shop around to find the best one. 

They should also use this time to start deciding what possessions they're going to take with them and what can be left at home.

How can you help your child prepare for university? 

There are many ways you can help your child prepare for independent life at university. 

Teaching your child practical skills for independent living is important. If they don’t do these things already, use the time between results day and start of university to get them doing their own washing and cooking their own meals.  

Budgeting is also very important. Sit down with them and work out how much money they’ll have per week, and if they’ll need any additional financial support.

• Results day and Clearing
• Clearing success stories

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Clearing 2024 FAQs

Whether you’re unsure about Clearing or need advice on choosing a course, we’ve answered all your key questions.

Need more Clearing advice?

Definitions, pre-clearing, during clearing, student accommodation, student finance, what's clearing.

Clearing is an opportunity for you to find a place at uni. When Clearing opens, universities will publish a list of courses that still have places available. You’ll find them in our Clearing course search.

Read our full guide to Clearing

What's UCAS Extra?

UCAS Extra lets you apply for a further course or uni if you’ve not got any offers or declined all of your five places. You can use the service if you’ve applied through UCAS and aren’t holding any offers, or are waiting for a decision on any of your initial five applications.

What's Clearing Plus?

Clearing Plus is a UCAS tool that suggests Clearing courses you might enjoy. Unis can directly contact you if you express an interest.

What's self-release?

If you’re holding an offer but change your mind about the university or course, you can self-release yourself into Clearing. Make sure you’ve done thorough research and received an informal offer over the phone before self-releasing. You won’t be able to go back if you change your mind.

What's an informal offer?

When you contact a university through Clearing, you may receive a verbal offer of a place. This’ll give you the chance to research the course further and decide whether to accept the place.

What's a conditional offer?

An offer of a place on your firm or insurance choice made by a university, on the basis that your grades meet the entry requirements on results day.

What's a firm and insurance choice?

A firm choice is your first choice course when you submit your UCAS application. Providing you meet the conditions for entry on results day, you’ll be offered a place on your firm choice. Your insurance choice is your second or back-up option if you don’t meet the entry requirements for your firm choice.

What's confirmation?

Confirmation is where your university place will or won’t be confirmed. There are different confirmation decisions you can receive based on your results.

What's deferral?

Deferring is where you apply for a course but decide to delay starting it by one year. You might apply in 2024 to start in 2024 but defer for a year, meaning that you’ll start uni in 2025.

When's Clearing?

Clearing 2024 opens on 5 July and is set to close for applications on 21 October.

When's UCAS Extra?

UCAS Extra opens on 28 February 2024 and closes on 30 June.

What do you do if you no longer want your firm or insurance choice?

You can self-release from your firm or insurance choice to enter Clearing. You won't be able to reverse the decision, so be absolutely sure before doing so.

A Clearing course you’re interested in has the same requirements as one of your original choices. Is it wise to apply?

You’ll need to decide which course you prefer. You won't be able to apply for a Clearing course if you’re still holding an offer from either your firm or insurance choice. Before you decline your place on either your firm or insurance choice, call the university of the Clearing course you’re interested in and see whether you get a verbal offer.

If you’ve accepted an unconditional offer, can you use Clearing to look into different universities?

You can use Whatuni’s Clearing tool to see what courses are available and learn more about courses and unis. If you change your mind about an offer you’ve accepted and wish to enter Clearing, you’ll have to self-release from the course.

How do you know if you can use Clearing?

If you’ve applied through UCAS before the 30 June deadline, check your UCAS Hub account. This will tell you the status of your application and if you’re eligible for Clearing. If you haven’t applied before 30 June, you’ll need to apply through UCAS.

Can BTEC students go through Clearing?

Yes, Clearing is open to all BTEC students.

Can mature students go through Clearing?

Yes, Clearing has no age limit.

Can EU and international students use Clearing?

Yes, provided they have applied through UCAS and paid the application fee.

Can you still use Clearing if you’re unable to prove your English language requirements/haven't been able to sit the test?

Yes, but you’ll have to prove your English language results once you’ve sat the test. Universities will likely have a cut off point for this. During Clearing, inform the universities you call.

What are your options if you can’t sit the IELTS test?

Universities are accepting alternative English language testing. Please check with the university directly for this information.

If you don’t get your results until August, how can you hold a place when Clearing opens?

You can’t reserve a place until you get your results. To prepare for results day, it’s important you do your research early. You can use Whatuni’s Clearing tool to search, save and compare courses you’re interested in.

What can you do considering your results come out in August and you therefore can’t hold places from 5 July?

Prior to results day, you can start searching, saving and comparing courses on your Whatuni account. We also suggest reading  student reviews  and checking the regular Clearing guidance on our  advice section .

If you have your results but they don't show up on UCAS Hub, can you apply for Clearing courses?

If your results aren't showing up, call the universities you're interested in and explain that you have your grades. You should also contact UCAS to amend your grades not appearing.

What if you’re a mature student who already has your results?

You can start applying once Clearing opens on 5 July 2024.

Where can you find Clearing vacancies/places?

Our  Clearing tool will show what courses are available in Clearing. Our pages will be regularly updated with which universities have spaces and for what courses.

Where can you find the Clearing phone numbers for each university?

Our Clearing tool will have a ‘call now’ button with the number to call. Make sure you know what you want to ask and what they may ask you before calling.

What personal information should you have on hand before calling?

Have your Clearing number, your UCAS ID number, your personal statement, your grades and any questions ready before you call.

Do I need a personal statement for Clearing?

You don't need a brand new personal statement for Clearing, as your existing one should have most if not all of the information needed.

Where can you find your Clearing number?

You can find your Clearing number by signing into your UCAS Hub account. You'll find it in the 'application status' section.

Is Clearing first-come, first-serve?

Places are offered on a first-come-first-served basis, so Clearing offers are open as long as places are available.

How do you add a Clearing choice?

Once you have a verbal offer, log on to your UCAS Hub account. Under the ‘your choices’ tab, click on ‘add Clearing choice’. The university will then confirm your place. The uni will likely give you a deadline by which you have to add your offer to your UCAS Hub for it to remain valid, so act quickly!

How many Clearing choices can you add?

You can only apply for one course at a time through Clearing.

How long do universities take to respond to Clearing applications?

If the university wants to offer you a place on their course, they'll do so immediately over the phone when you call them. However, you'll still need to log onto your UCAS Hub account and add the Clearing course. Once you've done this, universities will typically confirm your place within 24 to 72 hours.

Do universities lower entry requirements in Clearing?

Some universities will lower the entry requirements for certain courses in Clearing. This won't be the case for every course. Our Clearing tool will show up-to-date entry requirements so you can see which courses have lowered their entry requirements.

How much does Clearing cost?

If you made an application before the 30 June deadline to choose one course, you’ll need to pay an additional fee that adds up to £27.50. If you already paid the full UCAS fee, you won't have to pay again.

What happens if you accept an offer through Clearing but change your mind?

You’ll have to self-release from your choice to re-enter Clearing.

Can you defer a university place through Clearing?

No, spaces available through Clearing are for students intending to start this academic year.

Can you still attend open days before making a decision through Clearing?

Yes! Many universities will have open days specifically for those students going through Clearing, while keeping your offer open to you until you’ve had the chance to visit.

Can you apply to a university that rejected you through Clearing?

Yes, as long as there are still spaces available.

Can you apply to a university through Clearing without UCAS?

Yes, through a Record of Prior Acceptance form. Check first that your university offers this route.

Do Russell Group universities do Clearing?

Yes, many Russell Group universities will have courses in Clearing. However, which universities these are and what courses they offer change each year.

Will you miss out on all of the good courses if you don’t go through Clearing straight away?

The popular courses in Clearing will fill up fast once results day arrives. You should research, save and compare any courses you’re interested in before results day.

Will going through Clearing affect your start date?

You’ll still start on the same date as all other students, unless you get your offer after term starts, in which case you'll be able to start as soon as you have your place fully confirmed and are able to start attending classes.

What are your other choices if you don’t get any offers through Clearing?

Consider a degree with an integrated foundation year, a foundation degree, an HND or HNC. You’ll get equipped with the skills and grades needed to progress onto a degree-level course.

Can you find student accommodation through Clearing?

Yes, you can find student accommodation through Clearing. Universities will usually be able to guarantee you a room providing they have the space. Have backup options in place just in case you can’t get into university halls.

Can you apply for accommodation before accepting your place on a course?

You can’t apply for university-managed accommodation until you have a confirmed place. Private accommodation options may accept applications before a university place is confirmed.

Is it hard to find student accommodation through Clearing?

This will depend on the university and how many students are already enrolled. Start researching what accommodation you want to apply for now so that you can confirm your accommodation quickly once you have a place on a course.

Can you still apply for a student loan during Clearing?

Yes, but be organised. Contact your relevant student finance organisation to sort out your student loan, maintenance loan and any other loans you’re looking to apply for.

What if you’ve already applied for student finance for a different university and course?

You’ll need to update your details with Student Finance as soon as you have a confirmed place. You can do so by logging in to your Student Finance account.

Guide to UCAS Clearing

Start searching for Clearing courses

We've got loads of handy articles all about what to do during Clearing in our Clearing Hub

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The Ultimate Guide To UCAS And Personal Statements

by The Oxford Scholastica Team | 16 May, 2024 | Blog Articles , Get the Edge

Table of Contents

What does UCAS stand for?

UCAS stands for Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. It is the centralised online service in the UK that everyone has to use in order to apply to any undergraduate University course in the UK.

How many courses can you apply to on UCAS?

Through UCAS, you can select up to five different courses to apply to. These can be at the same university, different ones, or a combination of both. It’s completely up to you! If you’re struggling to choose what to study, read our guide on how to find the right university course for you .

How does UCAS work?

You write and submit your application via UCAS, and UCAS sends this to the admissions teams for each of the courses you’ve selected. They will then consider your application along with all the others they have received from different students around the world, and decide who they would like to offer places.

So, UCAS is effectively the link between you and the universities you’re applying to. This means you have to sell yourself as best you can on your UCAS application, since this may be all that the admissions teams are basing their decisions on.

UCAS deadlines

UCAS have two major deadlines for undergraduate application submissions. The earlier deadline is for anyone wanting to apply to Oxford or Cambridge, and for most medicine, veterinary medicine and dentistry courses across the country. This early deadline is usually 15th October . But be sure to double check that this is true for your year! The deadline for all other undergraduate courses is usually 15th January . However, many universities and colleges continue to accept applications from international students until later in the year as part of the regular college admissions cycle .

There’s quite a big gap between these two deadlines. This is because all courses with the earlier cut off point require you to go for an interview before they make their offers, so they need time to schedule these. This means you need to decide quite early in the year (by the summer before your deadline) whether you’re going to apply to any of the courses with the 15th October cut off, so that you have enough time to write your application!

UCAS application

You fill out your application using UCAS’s online hub. There are several sections to the form; some require information that you can fill out quickly and others need more time. You don’t have to do it all at once though. You can save your progress and come back to it as many times as you want.

What information are they looking for?

Most obviously, UCAS will want to know your 5 course choices! You don’t have to place them in order of preference at this point and none of the admissions officers will see the other courses you have applied to. They will, however, have access to this information after you reply to any offers you receive, but it can’t impact your application in any way.

Under the current system, a personal statement will also be required, showing your vested interest in your chosen subject. It should also demonstrate your motivation and enthusiasm, as well as any skills you have picked up so far that will help you do well at university. This is your chance to tell admissions teams why they should offer you a place on their course.

Please note: In January 2023, UCAS announced some changes to the admissions process, and the personal statement will be different for admissions cycles from 2024/25. This article will be updated when the changes are confirmed.

There will also be some additional questions for monitoring purposes. These don’t affect how likely you are to be offered a place in any way. The information is not shared with the universities until the end of the application cycle, when you’ll already know their decisions. If you’re applying from the UK, you will be asked questions about your ethnic origin, national identity and what your parents do for a living. There are also some optional questions about religion, sexual orientation and identity.

Within the additional questions section, there will be optional queries relating to your personal circumstances. These will be shared with the university if you wish to provide information about, for example, your parental education or whether you’ve been in care. This is known as ‘contextualised admissions’ and allows the university to form a more complete understanding of you as an individual so that they can provide support if necessary. If you want to know more about how a university will use this information, you can ring their admissions team directly and ask. Don’t be scared to do this at any point as, again, it won’t affect your likelihood of being offered a place!

Other information that UCAS will require is listed below:

• Full education history: GCSEs and predicted A-Level/IB qualifications
• Full employment history
• Reference from teacher, adviser or professional who knows you academically.

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Thanks for signing up, how do i write a good ucas personal statement.

There isn’t a ‘correct’ way to write your personal statement. The key is in the title – the statement is personal. And so it should be as unique to you, your experiences and your interests as possible. That being said, there are some ways you can structure your statement to ensure clarity. Also, there are key things you can include to make sure you are providing the information admissions tutors want to know, so that you come across as an enthusiastic, mature and motivated student.

What do I put on my UCAS application?

Why you find the subject interesting.

Explain what it is that attracts you to your subject, and why you want to study it at university level. Mention particular areas you want to find out more about, for example something you’ve briefly covered on the course at school, or something you’ve read about in your own time.

Detail the relevant things you’ve read that you found the most engaging, and talk about why you found them interesting. Whether or not you’re applying for a literature-based course, make sure you’ve done some reading around the subject. And don’t just regurgitate views you’ve heard in class, read in a textbook or seen online. Remember, the admissions teams want to hear your personal opinion. This is one reason why attending a summer programme like an Oxford summer course is so helpful: it introduces you to wider perspectives about your subject, and good ideas for further reading (please note, our programme in Oxford is not affiliated with the University of Oxford)! For inspiration, check out these recommended lists of best books for English literature students , best psychology books and top law books to read .

Employment or volunteering experiences

There is a different section in which to detail your complete employment history, so only pick the most relevant to discuss in your personal statement. Choose the ones that have either taught you useful skills or made you more passionate about your subject.

Work experience / Summer schools / Taster Courses

Talking about any relevant work experience, summer schools or Higher Education taster courses can be really valuable in your personal statement. Again, choose the ones that are most representative of your engagement with your chosen subject, and detail the skills and knowledge you gained. For example, if you’ve ever attended our Oxford Summer School that’s a great one to talk about here! Going to an academic summer school like Oxford Scholastica shows your dedication to your subject outside school, which all admissions tutors are looking for.

Extracurricular activities

Clubs and societies you are a part of at school, or have leadership roles in, can be useful to discuss here, as long as you explain what you’ve gained from them. More on this in the next section!

Extra qualifications

You can also mention the skills you may have developed through any extra courses or qualifications you’ve completed, such as Duke of Edinburgh (DofE), National Citizen Service (NCS), Young Enterprise, etc.

Note for International students:

If you’re applying from outside the UK, you should also mention: why you want to study here, your English language skills, and any English courses or tests you’ve taken. It can also be good to mention why you want to be an international student, rather than studying in your own country.

UCAS personal statement structure

• Universities are quite clear about the skills and qualities they are looking for in their students; make sure you read the course descriptions for each course you’re applying to and structure your statement to demonstrate that you have met everything they are looking for.
• You have a maximum of 4,000 characters and 47 lines when you input your personal statement into UCAS. This means you need to think carefully about how many paragraphs to have and what information it is most important to include.
• Try to present your achievements and interests in a clear and concise manner. This means having different paragraphs for different experiences where possible, and not repeating yourself. Link anything you have done to what you have learnt from it and how that better prepares you or makes you more interested in the course.
• Avoid presenting a list of things you have done. Admissions teams won’t care about how many charity projects you’ve been involved with unless you tell them what you have gained from each one.

8 top tips for the best UCAS application

1. Keep it focused on you. Don’t try to define your subject or explain it to the admissions tutor – they are already experts!

2. Write in a natural style – show your understanding of your subject but without going into too much detail or trying to make it sound too complex. Again, you don’t have that many characters available and you need to prioritise talking about yourself. The most important thing is to come across as enthusiastic and eager to learn MORE – don’t focus on trying to show off what you already know.

3. Equally, don’t pretend to know more than you do, or exaggerate your achievements – this is especially important if you are going to be interviewed because they will ask you to elaborate on things you mentioned in your statement.

4. Be careful with humour or quotes – the admissions tutor may not have the same sense of humour as you and it could be a waste of characters!

5. Proofread it aloud , and get as many people to check it as possible so that you have a lot of different perspectives – ask your teachers, friends, and family.

6. Make sure the spelling, punctuation and grammar are completely correct as errors will suggest that you’re careless.

7. You will probably produce several drafts of your personal statement before you’re completely happy with it. This is why it’s important to start writing as early as possible – this is not something to be left to the last minute!

8. Don’t copy bits of another personal statement or share yours with anyone applying for similar courses or similar universities. All personal statements are checked for similarity and if yours is flagged as being too similar to someone else’s, it might reduce your chance of being offered a place.

How much extracurricular content should I include?

Most universities like to see that you have been engaged in extracurricular activities throughout your time at school. They show that you can juggle several commitments at once, and also that you know how to balance work and play – something that is very important at university! However, your personal statement should be mainly focused on the course you’re applying for and why you want to do it. Extracurriculars should only make up one small paragraph towards the end. That said, it shouldn’t be the focus of the final paragraph – you should wrap up with something about your relationship with your chosen subject.

Extracurriculars relevant to the course you’re applying for are amazing, but you can include ones that aren’t directly relevant too. The key is to mention what you do, and then link it back how it has helped you develop the skills and attributes that the university wants to see. These could include commitment, dedication, confidence, teamwork, resilience and interpersonal skills – all important qualities for a university student to have. For medical school applicants, see our tips on the best extracurriculars for medical students .

What if I’m applying to different courses at different Universities?

Applying to different courses at different Universities is difficult because unfortunately, you are usually only allowed to submit one personal statement.

If just one of your choices is completely different from the others, a University may accept a separate personal statement for that course, but it has to be sent directly to them – not through UCAS. You have to call the university’s admissions team to ask if this is possible or speak to them on an open day. Speaking to them individually is the only way you can find out, but you should try to get some advice from a teacher or advisers before you do this. If one of your courses is fairly unusual and only offered by a small number of universities, the admissions team will have probably received calls like this many times before and so may be more lenient, but it’s definitely best to just ask.

There may be slight differences between the five courses you’re applying for, for example, if they are all joint or combined degrees with slightly different subject combinations. In this case, writing one statement shouldn’t be too much of a problem. You just have to make sure that you make your statement as relevant as possible to all of them – so make sure each subject is covered by what you are saying.

However, if there are big differences between all of your course choices, you will have much more difficulty writing a great personal statement. You can try to make your statement appropriate to all courses by demonstrating your skills and academic interests more generally. Alternatively, you can openly state that you are applying to several different courses and try to explain as best as possible why you have done this based on your academic interests. The focus here should be on a strong interest in all the courses and the different things they offer. Make sure you don’t come across as simply indecisive or not sure what you want from a course!

Both are risky strategies so we would advise you to apply for five courses that have some clear common ground that you can focus on in your statement.

When can I expect to hear back from UCAS?

Once you’ve sent off your application, the UCAS hub will allow you to check how your application is progressing. Most interview invitations (although not all – some course providers may email you directly), offers and rejections will be shown on there.

Unfortunately, each university’s application monitoring process takes a different amount of time, so it’s difficult to know for sure when you’ll have all of your decisions back. However, UCAS says that if you met their application deadline (15th January), you should have heard back by the 31st March and will definitely hear by the 9th May. Having said that, many universities will get back to you within just two or three weeks of applying.

If you applied at the earlier deadline (15th October), this probably means you’ve applied to one or more courses that require an interview. If you’re applying for medicine, dentistry and veterinary medicine, different universities hold their interviews at vastly different times. Generally, the earliest are in December and the latest are in March.

There is also a big range in how much time different universities give you between letting you know you have an interview, and the interview itself. Once you’ve decided where you want to apply, you might like to contact the admissions teams of each university directly, so that you have a rough idea of your personal timeline of events and deadlines.

What’s the difference between conditional and unconditional offers?

An unconditional offer means the university is very keen to have you on their course. If you accept it, they will automatically confirm your place regardless of the exam results you receive. Many universities (such as the University of Birmingham) will often state that if you accept an unconditional offer from them, you have to put it as your firm choice – you can’t have it as your insurance. The terms ‘firm’ and ‘insurance’ are explained in the next section.

A conditional offer is one that is dependent on the grades you are yet to receive. In the offer, they will outline which grades you need to get in order to take up your place on their course. Most universities provide their usual grade offers for each course on their website, so you know before you apply.

This is something you should bear in mind when discussing your predicted grades with your teachers. Your predicted grades on your application need to match, be close to or exceed what the university usually asks for, or it’s unlikely that you’ll be offered a place. You should think optimistically but realistically about what you can achieve.

Responding to offers – firm and insurance choices

Once you have received all your decisions, you have until a fixed deadline to reply to any offers through UCAS. This deadline is usually 31st March, as long as you’ve heard back from all five choices by then. If you have two or more offers, you have to choose one to make your ‘firm’ choice, and one to make your ‘insurance’. Your firm choice is your preferred option, so if it’s unconditional, or it’s conditional and you meet the grade requirements on results day, you will have a place on that course. Your insurance choice is your back-up, so it makes sense to choose a course with lower offer conditions, in case you don’t meet your first choice offer. You should make sure this is still a university you would be happy to go to, though!

Think carefully before you respond – you can’t change your mind on Results Day (unless you do much better than expected – see our section on ‘Adjustment’). Remember that there’s no rush as long as you meet the deadline: the universities can’t take back their offers because you’re taking too long!

You’ll then have to decline any other offers you receive that you haven’t made your firm or insurance option.

If you have a complete change of heart, you can decline all of your offers and apply to more courses using UCAS’s ‘Extra’ service.

What if I miss my offer? What is Clearing?

If you don’t get the grades you needed for your first-choice offer, your first port of call should be ringing your chosen university’s admissions team directly. They may still give you a place, especially if you only just missed your grades, because other prospective students may have missed their grades too. There’s no harm in trying, and, if there’s a particular reason as to why you achieved lower grades than anticipated, this context could help explain to them why you didn’t make the offer.

If you miss the grades for your insurance choice too, and you don’t have any luck with ringing either university, you can turn to UCAS’s Clearing Service. This allows you to find a similar course, usually at a different university, with entry requirements that match the grades you have. In 2021, Clearing ran from 5th July to 19th October (2021), but again you should check the dates for your own year of application. The application process works differently to the initial submission process.

When you apply to clearing, you are given a ‘clearing number’ – a form of ID. There are two routes you can take; Clearing Plus matches can be found in your UCAS Hub, register your interest with a course that appeals and have your application sent directly to them to make a decision. You can also search for all the available course vacancies, which means contacting the university directly if you find a course you’d like to apply to. You provide them with your clearing number and Personal ID over the phone so that they can look up your application, and then ask them if they’d accept you.

If they give you an informal offer over the phone, you can then add the course as a clearing choice in the UCAS Hub. You can only add one course at a time, and if the university confirms it, you definitely have that place and can’t apply anywhere else. Many universities have spare places on their courses after results day, so this is a very common option for people whose grades don’t align with their original universities’ requirements.

Better results than expected? What is Adjustment?

If you get better results than expected (i.e. you have met and exceeded the conditions of your firm offer and think you could be accepted onto another course which typically gives out higher offers), you may be able to apply to that course through Adjustment. You register for Adjustment via the UCAS Hub.

Adjustment is only available for a small, fixed amount of time, so you have to act fast! In 2021, this was from 10th August – 18th August (as always, check the exact dates for your year of application!). Adjustment is different to Clearing, as there isn’t a list of available courses for you to search through. Instead, you have to find out the grade requirements of courses you’d be interested in on a university’s website, and then contact the admissions office of those universities directly to ask about any possible vacancies. You have to provide your Personal ID so they can check you’ve exceeded the conditions of your original firm choice, and that you meet their own conditions of entry.

Then, if you are absolutely sure you want a place at that university, you can verbally agree an offer with them. The university will then add themselves to your application, your UCAS Hub will be updated, and you’ll have a place on that course!

Ready to get a head start on your future?

Next steps for applying to university through UCAS

Check out these useful resources to help you on your way to completing your university applications through UCAS.

• UCAS’ key dates timeline
• Taking the International Baccalaureate? Read this article on applying to UK Universities while studying for IB
• Not from the UK? Have a look at UCAS’ application tips for international students
• Which? University article on ‘How to write a personal statement that works for multiple different courses’

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The Ultimate Guide to UCAS Clearing

UCAS Clearing is the process by which universities and colleges across the UK fill any remaining places they have on their courses . UCAS match prospective students looking to study with the courses and institutions that have vacancies available.

Clearing is fast becoming one of the most important facets of the university application process. Our UCAS Clearing guide contains everything you need to know about Clearing to help you understand the process and get familiar with everything you need to do before and during your university application.

To prepare further, why not register with us for email updates with Clearing tips and advice?

Your complete guide to UCAS Clearing

Click on the questions below to read our answers to the most commonly asked questions about Clearing.

What is UCAS Clearing?

Why is it called ‘clearing’, when is clearing, how long does clearing last, when can you apply for clearing, when is the clearing deadline.

• What is all the hype?

Is Clearing just for people with no offers?

• How do you go through clearing?

Does Clearing only happen with University courses, what about colleges?

Who participates in clearing (which universities).

• How can I find Clearing vacancies?
• How to make the most out of Clearing
• Can I change my mind during Clearing?
• What courses are available during Clearing?

What part do UCAS play during Clearing?

Do i have anything to lose.

• Top tips for Clearing

Clearing advice for parents and guardians

• Where to get help during Clearing
• Will I be treated differently if I get my place through Clearing?
• Is there a stigma attached to getting a university place through Clearing?
• Where can I find a list of the universities and their Clearing courses?
• Do the ‘Russell Group’ and ‘red brick’ Universities have Clearing vacancies?

What should I do if the course I want isn’t listed for Clearing?

Is there a separate fee for applying via clearing, what are the steps of clearing, can you switch firm and insurance choices during clearing, do course entry requirements change for clearing.

• Why is Clearing important to me?
• What steps do I need to take to prepare for Clearing?

What is ‘adjustment’?

• Can I get take part in Clearing if I didn’t make any Uni applications?

Who is eligible for UCAS Clearing?

How does clearing work, what time does ucas clearing open, is ucas clearing first come first serve, how long does ucas clearing take.

• What about accommodation in Clearing?
• Are the fees and finance options the same for Clearing courses?

UCAS Clearing: What to say

What is a ucas clearing number, where can i find my ucas clearing number, how do you accept a ucas clearing offer, when does ucas clearing close, is ucas clearing still open.

• My course is listed on Clearing – should I be worried why it isn’t full?

Does UCAS Clearing work?

Can you apply for a university place through clearing without ucas, myths around university clearing.

UCAS Clearing or ‘Clearing’ is the process by which universities and colleges fill any places they still have on their courses. For many students, it’s a great way to find a course, perhaps because they didn’t get the grades they were hoping for, because they’ve changed their plans or they have only recently decided to apply to university.

You can use UCAS Clearing to find a place on a course at a UK college or university if you don’t already have a place – regardless of whether you haven’t been accepted by your preferred university choices, or you haven’t begun your application. Clearing is really the last opportunity to apply for a place at university before the start of the academic year. Many prospective students look for places during Clearing – you can apply for any course which still has places available .

The exact history of Clearing is not publicised by UCAS, but the process literally involves ‘Clearing’ empty places and processing those applications for students. The aim of Clearing is to fill empty spaces on courses across the UK and match them with students who do not have a place. Clearing takes place at UK colleges and universities each year.

Clearing usually begins in July ahead of prospective students receiving their results, and stays open as long as there are places – often up until October for some courses. On SQA (Scottish Qualification Awards) results day you can add your Clearing choices to UCAS Track from 10am (BST), and on A level results day you can add your Clearing choices to UCAS Track from 3pm (BST). You can also register with us for email updates ​ and we will remind you of each stage.

Clearing usually runs from July until October each year, although it depends on how many places are available and whether colleges and universities with places are happy to accept students after the course induction period has begun. Therefore, UCAS Clearing opens in July across all universities and colleges, but the precise end date will vary depending on the specific institution. In our experience, some places are still available at some institutions during October, but it would be wise to ensure your application is submitted as soon as possible once you have received your results.

There is no specific deadline for Clearing because places are taken on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis. Places often remain during Clearing up until October, but it depends on the popularity and total number of spaces available for each individual course . It’s important to make your enquiries with colleges and universities as soon as you can to have the best chance of securing a place at university on a course of your choosing.

There is no specific deadline for Clearing because places are taken on a ‘first-come, first-served’ basis. Places often remain during Clearing up until October, but it depends on the popularity and total number of spaces available for each individual course. It’s important to make your enquiries with colleges and universities as soon as you can to have the best chance of securing a place at university on a course of your choosing.

What is all the hype about Clearing?

Clearing is often the final opportunity to follow your study plans and find a place on an undergraduate course at college or university. If you were late submitting your application to university through UCAS or perhaps did not achieve the grades you needed to receive a conditional offer on your preferred course, then UCAS Clearing is an opportunity to quickly adjust your plans and obtain a place. As there are a limited number of places available for prospective students during Clearing, there may be competition for places – this is especially the case at popular colleges and universities where the demand is high.

UCAS Clearing is usually for prospective students who hold no offers. You are only eligible for Clearing if you do not currently hold an offer of a place at university. This may be because you did not receive any offers, or because you declined the offers you did receive. If you change your mind about your firm choice then you can speak to the college or university and see if they will allow you to change your mind. Only after they release your place will you be able to submit an application through UCAS Clearing.

You will need to be eligible to study for the courses you want to apply for and meet the entry requirements in order to obtain a place. You can also submit an application through Clearing if you have not previously applied through UCAS – perhaps because you’ve only just decided to go to university after the UCAS deadline. If you apply through UCAS from July you will automatically be entered into Clearing.

Aside from this, Clearing is also useful if you change your mind about the subject or course you’d like to study. Some students have a last-minute change in plans and decline any previous offers to apply for something new at a completely different university.

How do you go through Clearing?

If you applied to university through UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service in the UK) and do not have any offers you will automatically be enrolled in Clearing. You will also be automatically entered into Clearing if you apply through UCAS after the June UCAS deadline.

Clearing is not just for university places. During Clearing you can search for and apply for available places at university and also at further education (or ‘FE’) colleges. If you’re unsure whether a university or college has places available during Clearing , it’s worth visiting their website or contacting them to find out more – UCAS may also be able to provide support if you have questions about particular institutions.

Any university or college with spaces remaining on a course will be a part of UCAS Clearing. At the moment, ‘Conservatoires’ do not use Clearing to fill vacancies, you would need to contact them directly to talk about available places and applications.

How can I find clearing vacancies?

A full list of which courses and institutions have spaces can be found on the UCAS website, or if you know where you would like to study then the university website of your chosen institution will be likely to publish its own list of vacancies. If you have any specific questions regarding Clearing vacancies, it’s worth contacting UCAS or the university or college in question.

How to make the most out of clearing

You can make sure that you’re prepared for Clearing by collating some useful questions to help you narrow down which university and course is right for you. For example, you might want to ask a university if they have accommodation places remaining – just because there are course places remaining doesn’t necessarily mean that halls-of-residence or other accommodation options are still available. Looking for your own accommodation at the last minute might cause extra stress at the start of your journey into higher education.

Some universities may ask you to provide proof of your qualifications or exam results before a place can be offered, so it’s important to make sure that you’ve got this ready when you speak to colleges or universities about your application. It’s also important to think about university life too, including what clubs and societies are available at a particular university, how far you’ll be from home, whether you’ll be in a bustling city centre or the countryside, and what the travel connections are like.

Can I change my mind during clearing?

You don’t have to stick with the original course or universities that you chose when you first made your application. You are free to look at any of the places available at any university or college. Clearing can be really helpful for students who have changed their mind about what course they want to study, and where they want to study. You just need to make sure that you decline any offers you might have had before you can enquire about a new place at a different institution through Clearing.

Find out more about the undergraduate courses we offer with our course finder .

What courses are available during clearing?

All courses that still have places remaining are eligible for applications through UCAS Clearing. You can find out if a course has any spaces by contacting the university or college who are running the course directly or by looking on the UCAS website. The University of Gloucestershire usually runs a Clearing hotline number that you can phone to make an enquiry about availability, and we also have a large number of people available to answer any questions you might have on Live Chat , which is available through our website.

UCAS handle all UK university applications for universities based in the United Kingdom. UCAS list all of the places available on courses on their website during Clearing. They will update the course availability information online continually during Clearing, so if you’re not sure what you want to study then the UCAS website will show you the subjects and universities which have spaces remaining on their courses. If you are in Clearing, UCAS will give you a ‘Clearing number’ which you can find online in their online system called ‘Track’. You should have a login to access your details and keep up with the progress of your applications.

If you don’t hold an offer of a place at University then you have nothing to lose by applying to university through Clearing. If you wish to further your studies either at university or college then Clearing gives you the opportunity to find and secure a place. There is no additional cost to using Clearing unless you have not already applied or applied to only a single university and so paid the lower application fee. The fee charged is very small though.

Top tips for clearing

Make sure you’ve got your Clearing number handy before you contact a university – you can get this from ‘Track’ on the UCAS website.

Be clear about why you want to study a course at a particular university before you make the call as you might be asked why you’re interested. Make sure you’ve fully researched the course you’re interested in, and understand why you want to study at a particular university compared with another offering a similar course – be certain about how the same course differs across different universities. Also, be flexible and think about alternative courses that you might like to consider at the university you’re talking to.

Have a pen and paper ready in case you want to make notes during the call. If you’re using a web chat service you could also take screenshots to refer to later.

Create a shortlist of universities that you would like to speak to, you may even be able to register in advance ​ for a phone call on the day you receive your results.

Make sure your phone is well charged as you don’t want to lose your place in a queue or have the call disconnected right before they make you an offer.

Try not to worry and take your time to think things through. Clearing can be an anxious time for prospective students with many options to consider in a short space of time, but it’s important to make sure that you think about everything in detail and do your research.

Applying to university can be a daunting time for students, and an equally daunting time for parents and guardians. Be prepared to make a trip out to visit a few universities to help with decision making – seeing the university and getting first-hand experience of the environment it offers will often help students to know where they want to study and whether it’s the right place for them. Try not to plan your family holiday during the Clearing period or near results day – being away could make it difficult to make and receive calls or emails.

You might also want to book onto Clearing open days which some universities offer, so it’s best to be available and on hand to support your child or young person during this process. Be aware that universities will not discuss your child’s application with you unless they have nominated you on their UCAS form, or have provided the college or university with permission to do so. Read more advice for parents around Clearing.

Where to get help during clearing

The University of Gloucestershire will be available to help you with any questions you might have about your application here or the courses we offer and guide you through the Clearing process. If you have any questions and would like to talk to someone, our Clearing team is available by phone or by using the live chat button on our website. You can also get help from a careers advisor at your current school or college or from the helpful team at UCAS.

Will I be treated differently if I get my place through clearing?

Not at all, Clearing is an established route to higher education used by thousands of students each year to get the right place on the right course. Increasing numbers of students are making their primary application during Clearing (after the UCAS deadline). Nobody will disrespect you or single you out for applying through Clearing and you’re likely to meet lots of students who took the same path , for all kinds of reasons. You’ll be treated exactly the same as students who gained their place without going through Clearing and will receive exactly the same standard of teaching and access to facilities and resources, etc.

Is there a stigma attached to getting a university place through clearing?

Attitudes towards Clearing have changed significantly over the past few years. Perhaps originally viewed as a ‘last resort’ for students who underperformed in A-levels/BTECs or other pre-university qualifications, or did not receive an offer from a university, Clearing has become recognised as a much more widely used route into university. Clearing is an established, legitimate and important route for universities and prospective students to access places on a wide range of courses at most higher education institutes in the country – thousands of students apply through UCAS Clearing each year, and this number continues to rise.

Where can I find a list of the universities and their clearing courses?

UCAS holds the only official list of all course places that are available through Clearing. If you know which universities you’re interested in then you’ll almost certainly be able to find detailed information about each of their Clearing courses on their website, or by contacting them directly. The University of Gloucestershire website contains a Clearing section that will be updated throughout the Clearing period, providing all the information you’ll need to secure your place.

Do the ‘Russell Group’ and ‘red brick’ Universities have clearing vacancies?

Yes. Any university that still has places available when Clearing starts will offer them through Clearing (even universities that are in the Russell Group). Cambridge University announced that it would provide places through UCAS Clearing for the first time in 2019. Availability will depend on the size of the course and the number of places already offered to students before exam results are released.

If the course you were interested in isn’t listed on UCAS as having places during Clearing then it is likely to be full. If you want to make sure, it’s worth contacting the university to double check whether there are places still available. You could consider studying a slightly different subject or a joint honours degree where there is a mix of subjects. Perhaps look at whether your subject is available with a different degree award (BA or BSc for example).

You could also consider a different university where you can study the subject you want; maybe your first choice isn’t available but you could have a great experience at another institution. It’s worth checking again though, places are declined and made available frequently after results are released so a place might become available.

If you originally applied for one course via UCAS for the reduced fee, you will need to pay a small extra fee to apply for another place through Clearing. You will also need to pay the UCAS fee if you are submitting your application for the first time through Clearing (after the June deadline). The Paying for your application page on the UCAS website contains more information about application fees and how to pay them.

Once you’ve received your exam results, you will follow these steps through the UCAS Clearing process:

• Contact universities . As soon as you have received your exam results and Clearing has opened, you can contact your chosen universities to discuss the courses on which they have places available.
• Discuss options . They will talk to you and find out why you’re interested, and will decide whether or not to offer you a place based on your qualifications and the number of UCAS points you have.
• Get an offer . By the end of your call, you should have received a verbal offer and an invite for interview where relevant, or a rejection.
• Add your offer to UCAS Track . If you are offered a place that you would like to accept then you should add it as a Clearing choice in ‘Track’ (the online UCAS application system ). In order to ensure it’s a valid choice, it’s sensible not to add it before you’ve spoken to the university you want to attend.
• Track decision . The university or college will update UCAS with your offer and you can track their final decision against your application online.

No. Firm and insurance choices can’t be swapped. If you decline your firm choice, you can apply to your insurance choice through Clearing. Before doing this you should make sure the insurance course can offer places in Clearing. Make sure that you speak with both universities before accepting or rejecting either offer to avoid getting caught out and being left without a place at either.

You can’t assume that a course’s entry requirements will change or be lowered for Clearing, but some universities might alter their entry requirements for particular courses. You should check with the university or college running the course to find out whether they’ll be able to accept your application based on your qualifications – you will usually need to contact them directly by telephone, as this information will not always be available to them online.

Why is clearing important to me?

Choosing where to go to university for your degree studies is a big deal. It determines the award you’ll graduate with, the experiences you will have, the friends and connections you’ll make as well as where you will be living for the next three or more years of your life. If you haven’t already secured a place at university or if your exam grades don’t meet the entry requirements, Clearing is a really good opportunity to make exciting new plans. Clearing enables you to apply for any available places on courses at colleges and universities across the UK.

What steps do I need to take to prepare for clearing?

The best advice from students who have been through Clearing is to prepare in advance to save time on results day. Here are some useful steps to help you get ready for Clearing:

• Do your research . It’s a good idea to research other courses and institutions that might be of interest to you should an existing offer fall through, or if you don’t currently hold any offers. Read about different universities and look at things like the accommodation and facilities, clubs and societies as well as the course content and tutors. It’s also important to research the location of the university or college and find out more about where you’ll be living. Some people start a spreadsheet to score each university against the things that are important to them – this can be helpful if you’re indecisive or you like a lot of the universities you’ve seen and need to compare them objectively.
• Make a list . Create your own action plan so you know who you’re going to call first and make a list of questions to ask.
• Look at course availability . You should be able to look at listings of Clearing courses from the start of July, these list may change before results day but it’s helpful to see what’s out there. Check the universities’ own course listings ​ as well as the UCAS website.
• Collect your information together . Make sure you can find all the details you’ll need to hand when you begin calling universities on results day. Aside from your results, your top universities list and your Clearing number (from UCAS) you might want to have a copy of your personal statement and some answers to questions you might be asked – like why you want to study the particular course/subject and whether you’ve any experience in the area already, imagine it’s a bit like a job interview. Be sure to also think of the questions you want to ask them and note these down.
• Prepare for making calls . Make sure you’ve got a comfortable and peaceful space available to make your calls on results day. If you live with other people then agree that you’ll have use of the phone and maybe someone to talk to for support on the day. Have a pen and paper nearby so you can make notes during the call. Charge up your phone and laptop so you can browse the available courses online.
• Login to UCAS Track . As soon as you get a verbal offer of a place that you’d like to go ahead with, you can add it as a choice on the UCAS website and wait for it to be confirmed. Make sure you know your login details, record them somewhere safe and test logging in before results day.
• Arrange campus visits . Think about whether you also need to visit some more universities and colleges during the Clearing period as this can be a really good way to help you decide where you’d like to study.

UCAS Adjustment is similar to UCAS Clearing in that it allows you to find an alternative course based on your exam results. Unlike Clearing, Adjustment allows applicants who have exceeded the conditions of their firm choice to find a different course based on their actual exam results. UCAS Adjustment is entirely optional and opens on A-Level results day each year – it usually runs until the end of August. It’s important to remember that if you’ve exceeded your predicted exam results and have more UCAS points than you need, you don’t have to find an alternative course. You can stick with the offer that your firm choice has made you. There’s much more to higher education and university study than the entry requirements of your course, so make sure you’ve considered all of your options in full before you decide to proceed with UCAS adjustment.

Can I get take part in clearing if I didn’t make any Uni applications?

Yes, you can take part in Clearing if you have not yet applied for university. There are an increasing number of students each year who apply to university for the first time during Clearing. This might be because they’ve changed their mind or received better results than expected, or it might be because they didn’t feel like they needed to apply before the UCAS deadline. If you submit your UCAS application after the 30 June deadline, you will automatically be entered into Clearing.

Anyone is eligible to apply to university through UCAS Clearing , as long as they meet the entry requirements for their chosen course and submit their application before the Clearing window closes.

Clearing is the process by which universities fill any remaining places they have on their courses. It’s the last opportunity for prospective students to apply to university during the academic year. If you’ve already applied to university through UCAS but did not receive any offers, you’ll be able to apply for other courses through UCAS Clearing once you’ve received your results. If you haven’t already applied to university then you can submit your application for the first time through UCAS Clearing – in fact, if you submit your application for the first time after June, then you’ll be automatically entered into Clearing by UCAS.

While Clearing will be given an official start date by UCAS each year, Clearing doesn’t officially open at a particular time. It’s usually the case that you’ll be able to submit a Clearing application from early in the morning. On A-Level results day most universities will be available earlier than usual if you wish to contact them to discuss any courses you might be interested and your application. It’s worth checking the website of the university in question to view their o pening hours for the Clearing period. You can register with us for email notifications and we’ll send you reminders at each stage.

UCAS Clearing does work on a first come first serve basis, which is why it can often be an anxious time for prospective students who are submitting an application. It’s important to make sure you use your time efficiently once you’ve received your exam results if you plan on submitting an application through UCAS Clearing – this will give you the best chance of obtaining a place on your chosen course. Research any courses you’re interested in before results day and prepare for each eventuality as this will allow you to move quickly as soon as you have received your results.

While Clearing runs from July to October each year, each individual application will take a different amount of time to complete depending on the circumstances. If you’ve already applied to university and submitted an application to UCAS earlier in the academic year, you’ll probably find that you need to commit less time to your application as you’ll have already completed most of the required information.

If you’re applying for the first time through UCAS Clearing, you’ll need to complete a full application and submit this to UCAS before you can apply for a course at a particular university. From there, it really depends on how long it takes you to find the right course for you – for some people this might be on the morning of A-Level results day, while for others it might be in September or October. Try not to worry too much about how long your application will take as you’ll get a clearer idea once you’ve submitted your initial application to UCAS, and enquired about any courses you’re interested in with the university in question.

What about accommodation in clearing?

If you’re looking to apply to the University of Gloucestershire through Clearing, there’s no need to worry about accommodation . Clearing is an established route into university, and there are always accommodation options available for applications received during this time. Make sure you speak to our accommodation team when making your Clearing application to discuss the various options that are available, which will usually include halls of residence, private houses and lodgings.

Are the fees and finance options the same for clearing courses?

Fees and finance options are usually the same for courses which accept applications during Clearing. If you’re applying for university for the first time through clearing then make sure you contact Student Finance as soon as possible to begin your student finance application. Any delay in making your student finance application may result in a delay to receiving any financial support. Other financial support including bursaries and scholarships may still be available and accepting applications during Clearing.

If you have any questions about fees, finance, bursaries, scholarships and financial support then get in touch with our admissions team who will be able to answer any questions you may have.

If you’ve received your results and found the course of your dreams, it’s time to contact the university and ask any questions you might have, but what should you say? Clearing can be an anxious time for many students, so it’s important to make sure you’re fully prepared for every step.

Before contacting the university make sure you’ve done your research on the course and the wider university including things like accommodation, student life, transport and location. When you call the university, express your interest in submitting an application through Clearing for the course that you’re interested in. The university will be more than happy to discuss your application with you and answer any questions that you might have.

While doing your research write any questions down that you have so that you have these to hand when you call – remember that there’s no such thing as a stupid question!

When you submit an application through UCAS Clearing, you will be given a ‘Clearing number’ by UCAS. Your Clearing number allows you to contact universities and make enquiries about courses, and submit an application once you’ve found a course you’re interested in.

When you apply to university through Clearing you will be given a ‘Clearing number’ by UCAS. Once you have submitted your application UCAS will send you a welcome email which includes your Clearing number and details about how to access your application through ‘ UCAS Track ’ (the system that allows you to login and ‘Track’ the status of your UCAS application). Universities will ask for your Clearing number when you submit an application through Clearing, so it’s important that you have this handy before you make any enquiries.

If you’ve found a course you’re interested in and spoken to the university to discuss your application, you might have received a verbal or written offer of a place from them. In order to accept your offer you will need to log into ‘UCAS Track’ (the system that allows you to track your university application), and add the course in question as a ‘Clearing choice’. From there, the university will formally accept your application and UCAS will notify you of this within ‘ UCAS Track ’.

Clearing usually closes in October each year, although the precise date varies across different universities. It all depends on how many vacancies a university has remaining across all of their courses, and at what stage they decide to stop accepting applications. For most universities in the UK, this is usually at some point in October, although it’s worth contacting the university you’re interested in to find out whether they’ll still accept your application. You can register with us to get email updates at each stage.

UCAS Clearing is open from July each year, but the exact closing date of Clearing varies by university as it depends on how many vacancies a particular university has remaining, and also whether they’re happy to continue accepting applications after enrolment (when courses have begun for the academic year). The best advice is to contact the university you’re interested in studying at to ask whether you can still submit an application.

My course is listed on clearing – should I be worried why it isn’t full?

It’s important not to read too much into which vacancies are or aren’t remaining on a particular course at any university. This is because every course is different and the entry requirements vary significantly – some courses have significantly more places than others, so will naturally fill up faster. Rather than focus too much on which vacancies are available, make sure you research the course to understand whether it’s the right course for you – it’s important to consider the course alongside all aspects of university life, such as accommodation , location and transport links.

While it’s important to fully research the courses you’re interested in, make sure you’re efficient and make contact with universities as soon as possible to ensure your chosen course still has vacancies.

UCAS Clearing does work! Clearing is an increasingly popular route into university, and thousands of students submit an application through UCAS Clearing each year. During Clearing each university takes the opportunity to fill hundreds or even thousands of remaining spaces that they have across all of their courses. Clearing is your last opportunity to submit an application for university during the current academic year.

UCAS Clearing is a service operated by UCAS, so it’s not possible to apply through Clearing without UCAS. Some universities may be willing to accept an application outside of UCAS, but this would not technically be through Clearing. The established application route during the Clearing period is through UCAS Clearing, although it’s worth contacting the university in question to ask any questions you might have about your application.

There’s lots of misconceptions surrounding university Clearing, most commonly people perceive that Clearing is a last resort for students who don’t achieve good grades in their A-Levels or BTECs, however Clearing is a very common route to secure the right university place for a growing number of undergraduates.

Many people are put off the idea of applying to university through Clearing, fearing that it is too confusing. There’s no reason to be put off if things don’t go to plan – Clearing offers a huge opportunity to pursue your chosen study path despite maybe missing an earlier application deadline or changing your mind about where you want to go to university and what course/subject you’d like to study. It’s definitely not the case that it’s too late in the process to change your mind, and it’s better to spend a few days considering your future than to begin your studies with the feeling you’re making a mistake. You’re in control because you can decide to contact as many universities about as many courses as you want.

People may tell you that Clearing is what universities do just to fill up the courses that no-one has applied for. But any courses that have availability will be made available during Clearing, and sometimes additional places are even created to cater for demand and to accept students who might demonstrate an excellent portfolio and passion for study.

Another myth is that Clearing has to be a rushed process, forcing you to make life-changing decisions in a hurry, but this doesn’t have to be the case. Even after you’ve been made an offer, you should take time to consider what’s right for you, perhaps attend an open day or visit the university if you haven’t been before to get a feel for whether it is the right place for you to study. Some offers may have a deadline for you to accept or decline so you should check this when you speak to the university. Offers need to be accepted on ‘ UCAS Track ’ which reopens in the afternoon on your results day. It pays to do some advance research while you’re waiting to hear your results to see what options might be available to you. During the morning of results day take time to speak to people and weigh up your choices, you don’t even have to secure an offer on results day. Depending on your preferred subject area and institution, there may be places available for a few days and even weeks.

Check out the Clearing​ section of our website for news and register for regular updates​ by email .

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Personal statement

2020 Undergraduate Application

Make sure your personal statement is your own work

We'll carry out checks to verify your personal statement is your own work.

Provided it is your own work, you can use your personal statement from your application last year. If it appears to have been copied from another source, we'll inform the universities and colleges to which you have applied. They will then take the action they consider appropriate. We'll also contact you by email to tell you this has happened.

My Application example pages

• Centre link – Buzzword, school or college
• Centre link – Buzzword, terms and conditions
• Centre link – Buzzword
• Centre link – Buzzword, confirm school
• Centre link – Centre preferences
• Centre link – Wrong school
• Choose & Send – Choices
• Choose & Send – Overview 01
• Choose & Send – Overview 02
• Choose & Send – Contact details
• Choose & Send – Course cards
• Choose & Send – Education
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• Choose & Send – Education – Add qualification details
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• Receive & Review – Personal details
• Receive & Review – Contact details
• Receive & Review – Education
• Receive & Review – Work experience
• Receive & Review – Nationality
• Receive & Review – Supporting information
• Receive & Review – English skills
• Receive & Review – Diversity and inclusion
• Receive & Review – Finance and funding
• Receive & Review – Letters
• Receive & Review – View all updates
• Receive & Review – Visa
• Receive & Review – VARIANTS Application status
• Receive & Review – Overview Extra
• Receive & Review – Confirm your choices 01
• Receive & Review – Confirm your choices 02
• Receive & Review – Confirm your choices 03
• Receive & Review – Overview Confirmed Choices
• Receive & Review – Decline all offers
• Receive & Review – Edit Contact details
• Receive & Review – Embargo Overview
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• Receive & Review – Add choice
• Receive & Review – Decline place
• Receive & Review – Referee details
• Receive & Review – No reference
• Receive & Review – Centre provided reference
• Receive & Review – Confirm your choice (one option)
• Receive & Review – Correspondence example
• Choose & Send – References
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• Similarity report
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What do I need for Clearing?

Ucas clearing can be unpredictable, but it's also a great opportunity for students to find their perfect university. .

Make sure you're prepared and know what you need if you go through Clearing - it will take a lot of stress and guesswork out of the process. Read our guide to getting the most out of Clearing. 

Who can apply through Clearing?

What documents do i need for clearing, do i need a prsonal statement for clearing, who can apply through clearing .

As long as you've applied through UCAS ( Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) you're eligible to use Clearing if you: 

• apply after 30 June  
• don't receive any university offers, or none you want to accept 
• don’t meet the conditions of your offer(s) 
• decline your firm place using the ‘decline my place’ function 

If you're using Clearing to apply to university for the first time,  you must register with UCAS and submit an application.  You will also need to pay an applic a ti on fee of £27.50. 

1. A notepad and pen/laptop or computer 

Keeping notes will be essential during Clearing as you keep track of your university research, contact details and Clearing hotlines, important pieces of information and questions you might want to ask when you speak to a Clearing adviser. 

You can use a notepad and pen, a Word document on your laptop, tablet or computer, or the notes section on your phone - whatever you prefer. Ideally, you want something that's easy to access during a call.

Keep your notes simple and organised. If you're preparing notes in advance of Results Day; you may even have time to colour-code them.

Clearing can be a whirlwind so the easier you make things for yourself, the better. 

2. A list of Clearing courses you're interested in

Use the UCAS Course Finder to check which universities still have spaces available on their courses. You'll also find details on university websites.

If you spot a course you're interested in that still has vacancies, make a note of it alongside the university's contact details and any key bits of information you can use to showcase your interest in the course during the call.

3. A fully charged phone and a good internet connection

You can apply through Clearing via university hotlines or online chat. If you're planning on using your mobile phone and/or laptop make sure they are fully charged or have plenty of battery life. Check your internet connection, too, so that when you're looking up Clearing courses online or accessing the chat function, your connection doesn't drop out.

Taking other devices off WiFi - such as PlayStations, tablets or other mobile phones - can lighten the load on your internet bandwidth.

4. Questions to ask during your Clearing call

Wherever you choose to study, you will be an asset to that university. You have so much to offer, and it's important to remember that when you're applying through Clearing.

You don't have to commit to the first university that offers you a space unless you're 100% sure it's the right one for you. Instead, ask lots of questions and do some digging.

Asking insightful questions also shows you have a genuine interest in the course, which will appeal to the Admissions team.

Questions to prepare beforehand could include: 

• how is the course taught and what is the seminar-to-lecture ratio?  
• are there any opportunities, such as Open Days, to visit the university?   
• are work placements, internships or other career support offered? 
• are bursaries or scholarships available?   
• what support is available to students who are struggling?   
• what accommodation is available?

The documents you need to prepare for Clearing are:

• your UCAS number
• your personal Clearing number
• your A Level, AS, GCSE /or equivalent results

Have all the important information you need close by, so you can find it quickly. 

If you're an international student, y ou’ll only have a UCAS number if you originally applied to study in the UK through UCAS. Y ou’ll only receive a Clearing ID if you applied through UCAS but are not holding any university offers. The ID number helps our Admissions staff look up your details, but don’t worry if you don’t have this  – our advisers will still be able to guide you through the application process.

Do I need a personal statement for Clearing?

Many Admissions teams recommend you have your personal statement to hand for Clearing. 

Though it's not essential to the process, it's a great resource to rely on during your call with a Clearing adviser. It can help you talk through what makes you want to go to university, and why you're passionate about the subject you want to study.

If you have time, why not practise what you want to say on the call? This can really help if you're feeling nervous.

For more information, read our guide on what to say during Clearing.

Published By Amy Cousins on 17/06/2021 | Last Updated 02/05/2024

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What You Need For Clearing

You may know how it works, but what exactly will you need when applying to university through Clearing?

It’s natural to feel a little anxious about the UCAS Clearing process. However, as long as you understand how Clearing works and what you will need during the process, applying for Clearing should be a breeze.

Understand the terminology

Before you get started with Clearing, it is a good idea to make sure you understand the terminology which may pop up. Below is a list of common phrases you are likely to hear during the Clearing process:

• Choice - A course you apply for.
• Clearing call/ hotline - A call with a university you’d like to apply for through Clearing.
• Clearing deadline - The date when Clearing closes.
• Clearing number / ID - This is a number that will be on your UCAS hub welcome page. Remember, it is different from your UCAS personal ID.
• Clearing Plus - A personalised UCAS service which matches students to universities who have particular courses available in Clearing.
• Conditional offer - An offer to a course under conditions (typically your grades).
• Course Code - The number in the UCAS system given to each course.
• Deferral - If you’d like to start the course the following academic year.
• Firm choice - An offer you accept as your first choice.
• Hub - UCAS Hub lets you track your application.
• Informal offer - A offer by a university likely given verbally on a Clearing call. Once you have added the course as your Clearing choice, the university will then accept it making the offer formal.
• Insurance choice - An offer you accept as your second choice. Note you can not add more than one Clearing choice at a time. Insurance choices are only available for your original application.
• Point of entry - The year your course will start.
• UCAS number/ personal ID - A number personal to you given by UCAS.
• UCAS Self release - Allows a student who holds a university place to decline it and release themselves into Clearing.
• Unconditional offer - An offer onto a course with no conditions.
• Unsuccessful - The outcome if your university application is declined.

What you will need on the day

Making sure you have everything you will need for Clearing prepared will help eliminate any anxieties you may have. Although Clearing starts on the 5th July, most students enter Clearing on A Level results day . To secure your spot quickly and stress free on the day, make sure to have the following prepared.

Do I need a personal statement for Clearing?

You do not need to write a specific Clearing personal statement. When you make your Clearing application, it will contain your original personal statement.

You can submit a new personal statement if you want to. In order to do this, you will need to contact the university directly and ask them if you can submit a new one.

What info do I need for Clearing?

You will need to have a few things at the ready for when you apply through Clearing. This means that you will need to have:

• Any questions you may have about the course.
• Relevant portfolios.
• Work experience details (if you have any).
• Your Clearing number.
• Your GCSE and A-Level results.
• Your UCAS ID number.
• Your personal statement.This information will be essential for applying for university through Clearing.

Something to take notes with

Make sure you either have a pen and a pad, tablet, laptop or phone to hand to jot down any important information you may need. Note down any research you have done, important contact details and your personal information, for example your UCAS number.

It’s a good idea to have your notes organised. This way if you’re on a Clearing call with a university you will easily be able to navigate the answer to questions they ask. Rummaging through pieces of paper during your call probably won’t leave a great impression. Also, if they tell you any important dates or information in the call, you will want to be able to jot it down quickly.

Clearing can be a whirlwind, with you having to remember a ton of information whilst more is being thrown at you. Having organised notes will make Clearing a lot easier.

Fully charged phone and good internet

Before you add your Clearing choice on UCAS you will need to obtain an informal offer from the university you’re applying for. To do this, you’ll have to call up the university and enquire about the Clearing course you’re interested in. Clearing calls will typically involve the university asking you a few questions, so there's no saying how long a call could last. Also, you may want to phone up a few universities on results day. The last thing you want is your phone running out when you’re trying to secure yourself a Clearing spot.

You’ll also need either your phone or laptop for the Clearing process. To apply for Clearing you’ll need to have access to your UCAS account. Here you can search through the Clearing vacancies and add your Clearing choice. Don’t forget to make sure you have a good internet connection on the day.

A list of the courses your interested in

If you are uncertain whether you will need to go through Clearing or not, it’s a good idea to check which courses/universities have Clearing spots available prior to results day. Compile a list of courses you like the sound of, along with any contact details. That way, if you do end up going through Clearing, you won’t waste any time searching through the UCAS Course Finder for a Clearing space. It’s also key to remember that Clearing spots can go quickly, so the more you prepare beforehand the better chance you will have of securing your spot for September.

Choosing which university you would like to study at is not always an easy task. Taking the time to research the different universities available before making your final decision on a Clearing course is vital if you’re going to find the perfect place for you.

Questions for the university

During your Clearing call with a university you will most likely be asked a few questions on why you’d like to study on a particular course at their university. Whilst you want to focus on showing your enthusiasm in your answers, it's also a good idea to have some questions for them prepared. Not only does asking questions highlight your genuine interest, they are also a great way of getting to know the course/university better.

Remember, you are not required to stick to the first university that offers you a place. Instead, speak with a few universities, ask lots of questions and do some digging. Then, you’ll be certain that whichever offer you do accept is the right one for you.

A great place to start when thinking of questions for the university is the course itself. Delve into the course that you're interested in on the university's website and think of some insightful questions. You could ask about the seminar-to-lecture ratio, or the different opportunities available to students when studying. Here’s a few suggestions of questions you could ask during your Clearing call:

• Are there opportunities on the course to complete a work placement?
• Is the course mainly coursework or are there a lot of exams?
• Are there any Open Days?
• What accommodation is available?
• Are bursaries or scholarships available?

You don’t necessarily need to have tons of information at your disposal. Having all of the information that is relevant to you is sometimes the most important thing.

We recommend that you have all the information that a university will ask for to-hand. This means your UCAS ID number, your Clearing number, your work experience (if you have any) details, your personal statement and your GCSE and A-Level results.

Your personal statement will already be a part of your UCAS application . You will not need to re-write your personal statement unless the university you are applying to asks you to and this is exceptionally rare.

It is possible to re-apply with a new personal statement. This will not be done through UCAS; you will need to contact the university directly and ask them how to do so, as you may need to send the new statement to the submissions team.

How long does Clearing take?

This really depends on the university you are applying to. Once you have added the Clearing course you like to your UCAS Hub , this will then be down to the university and how long they take to respond to you.

Typically, universities tend to confirm your place within 24-72 hours. Some have been known to take longer, it will generally depend on how busy the university is at that time.

Have your documents ready

Documents are also important to have to hand throughout Clearing. You may be asked in your Clearing call to confirm any of your personal information. Alongside all of your personal details, make sure you have the following close by:

• Your UCAS number
• Your personal Clearing number
• Your A Level, AS, and GCSE results or equivalent

Clearing App

To make your life a little easier, download our Clearing app . Here you can research universities, search Clearing courses, and connect with universities in seconds. On a busy Clearing day, like results day, having a handy one stop app could be all you need to secure yourself a spot at university.

undergraduate Universities

Undergraduate uni's.

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501 courses

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472 courses

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Goldsmiths, UOL

344 courses

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520 courses

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• UCAS Personal Statements Are Changing in 2025

Last Updated: 16th January 2023

Author: Matthew Amalfitano-Stroud

Table of Contents

It was announced by UCAS in January of 2023 that traditional Personal Statements will be removed from the university application process in the UK. 

Since 1993, UCAS has required university applicants in the UK to submit a 4,000-character Personal Statement during the application process, which would then be accessed by university admissions teams to assist in the shortlisting process. 

However, it has been confirmed by UCAS that this process will be changing as soon as 2025. Here, we dissect the announcement, discuss what we currently know about this change and explain how this could affect your university application. Let’s begin:  

In short, this is what you need to know:

• UCAS Personal Statements are being replaced by a multi-question survey that gives applicants the chance to explain various aspects of their application.
• This change could be implemented as early as the 2025 admissions cycle for 2026 Entry in the UK.
• This will affect all applicants, both home and internationals, looking to attend a UK university in 2026 and beyond.
• Students will need to learn how to take on these new questions rather than traditional Personal Statement writing.
• Teachers will need to be prepared to do research on this new system and provide support for students in order to maximise their chances of success.
• We at UniAdmissions are keeping a very close eye on the situation and will update this guide as new information surfaces. We will also ensure that our support systems are up-to-date and effective at helping students through these changes.

What are Personal Statements Being Replaced with?

With the announcement that the current system for UCAS Personal Statements will be getting replaced, it is only natural to be asking what will be replacing it. Thankfully, we have already been given some idea of what to expect. 

Unlike the other major shake-up to the 2024 admission process, the removal of various admissions tests including the BMAT , the official announcement has provided us with an explanation of what UCAS is seeking to implement instead of traditional Personal Statements. 

Put simply, the current format of providing a 4,000-character piece of writing will be replaced with a series of specific questions which applicants must answer. These questions will still allow you to write your answers out, but you will be answering set questions instead of having to plan and structure a full statement from scratch. 

The specifics of this system have not been announced yet, including the number of questions and the character limits. We also don’t know what the questions will be yet as they are still being developed. However, we do know the key areas that these questions will focus on (all points are taken directly from the UCAS report): 

• Motivation for Course – Why do you want to study these courses?
• Preparedness for Course – How has your learning so far helped you to be ready to succeed on these courses?
• Preparation through other experiences – What else have you done to help you prepare, and why are these experiences useful?
• Extenuating circumstances – Is there anything that the universities and colleges need to know about, to help them put your achievements and experiences so far into context?
• Preparedness for study – What have you done to prepare yourself for student life?
• Preferred Learning Styles – Which learning and assessment styles best suit you – how do your courses choices match that?

Of course, this is all subject to change as UCAS is still actively working with universities to determine what they want most from applicants. However, it seems that they are aiming to cover the same ground as traditional Personal Statements while also allowing applicants to discuss more personal factors such as motivation, preference and extenuating circumstances. 

At UniAdmissions, we ensure all of our students receive the most up-to-date support.

At UniAdmissions, we’re working tirelessly to ensure that our tutors, curriculum and resources are ready to get our students through these changes. You can join them today and ensure you get the support you need to make it through the 2024 admissions cycle . 

Discover our Oxbridge Premium Programmes below and find out how you can enrol and triple your chances of success .

When Are UCAS Personal Statements Being Replaced?

The initial announcement stated that these reforms to the Personal Statement system will be introduced in the 2024 admissions cycle for 2025 entry. However, UCAS have since gone back on this and delayed the change to as early as 2025 (for 2026 Entry). However, this change could also occur the following year for 2027 Entry. 

UniAdmissions contacted UCAS directly to confirm if a date had been set for the implementation of the new Personal Statement format. The representative stated the following: 

The current discussion around the Personal Statement changes are to improve the application process for all applicants. At the moment the earliest this change would take place is in the 2026 application cycle. There won't be any changes this year. UCAS Representative

It’s worth mentioning that these plans have been in place for a fair amount of time, with discussions of reforming the application process starting in April 2021. However, this change still won’t be implemented for another year, so applicants applying for 2025 (and potentially 2026) Entry will still need to submit a traditional Personal Statement. 

Why Are UCAS Personal Statements Being Removed?

The announcement of these reforms was made on January 12th 2023 via a blog post on the official HEPI website. This post highlights the amendments being made to the Personal Statement process and the research that was conducted to influence this change.  

Interestingly, the data quoted in this post states that the majority of applicants surveyed were happy with the current Personal Statement process, with 72% feeling positive about it. However, the same survey indicated that 83% of applicants found the process stressful and 79% felt unable to complete theirs without support. This is the data that most likely influenced the changes. 

The post’s writer, Kim Eccleston, states that they are aiming to provide better support for both applicants and universities, creating “a more supportive framework” that allows applicants to write about what the universities need to know in a less restrictive way. It is also stated in a more detailed outline of the announcement that both students and teachers preferred the use of specific questions instead of free-form writing. 

However, a previous post released in November 2022 provides even more insight into the reasoning behind this decision. Based on data featured in HEPI Debate Paper 31 , various industry professionals had commented on the challenges facing applicants of certain background when it comes to the current style of Personal Statement. 

Within the quotes featured here, the traditional UCAS Personal Statement was described as “ambiguous” , “unfair” and “barometers of middle-class privilege” . These comments may potentially be in reference to the current importance of work experience, which can be difficult to obtain without connections in certain industries, as well as additional experiences which may not be available to all applicants.  

Therefore, this new system should presumably reduce the barriers for disadvantaged applicants by shifting focus to each individual’s own interest and abilities within their chosen subjects. 

Other Changes being Made by UCAS

Personal Statements are only one of five key areas being altered by UCAS, as highlighted in the blog post. This is certainly the most significant action taking place, but other changes to the application process include: 

• Academic references are being reformed, moving from a free-text approach to a set of three questions, similar to the Personal Statement reforms.
• The 'Entry Grade Report' will be created, which allows applicants to see grade profiles that have been accepted for courses over a five year period.
• A 'Course Recommendation Tool' is being created to provide applicants with personalised suggestions for courses based on their current grades and preferences.
• A 'Fair Access Programme' is being created to encourage widening access and participation.

Overall, it seems these changes all have the same intent; to level the playing field and make university applications more achievable for everyone. 

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How will this affect my university application?

As previously stated, if you are applying to university this year for 2025 Entry, you will not be affected by these reforms and will need to submit a traditional Personal Statement to UCAS like previous years. 

For applicants applying for 2026/27 Entry and beyond, your application will follow this new process, meaning you won’t have to submit a full Personal Statement but will instead need to answer a series of questions relating to your application and abilities for your chosen course. 

When hearing that the whole process will be changing, this typically instils a feeling of dread as you’ll be treading new ground that no one else has experienced before. However, it’s important to understand that UCAS states these changes are being made for the benefit of both the applicants and the universities. 

As we’ve already discussed, a key part of the reason this change is being implemented is that a high percentage of applicants found writing a traditional Personal Statement stressful, which is counterintuitive to what UCAS is trying to achieve. By providing applicants with a strong framework, in the form of specific questions, this new process should allow more applicants to provide better quality statements for universities. 

This change is also set to be particularly beneficial to those from disadvantaged backgrounds, as the process will allow them to better express their ability regardless of any areas that may be lacking due to factors out of their control. Essentially, the new process should allow more people to stand a better chance of making a good impression despite limitations. 

How Can I Start Preparing?

If you’re starting your preparations early, the main barrier you’ll face at this stage of preparation is not knowing what the questions will be, as they have yet to be announced. There are no resources available currently that cover this system, so you’re going to have to be independent with your preparation here.

Since we have a rough outline of what the questions to focus on, you should still be able to practice your responses. Although they won’t be as relevant any more, it would still be helpful to check out Personal Statement guides and examples as these can help you pin down the language and writing style you use. 

With all this information now available to us, you should be able to get a sense of what to do for your application in the coming years. The initial introduction of this system in 2024 will act as a test of its effectiveness, so elements could be changed in the years following. However, the important thing is that you understand how things are changing from the current system and how you can make the most of the new system. 

If you are applying for university in 2023 for 2024 Entry, you will need to make sure you’re ready to write your Personal Statement. Thankfully, UniAdmissions have plenty of resources to help you through it, including our Ultimate UCAS Personal Statement Guide and our collection of successful Oxbridge Personal Statements . 

If you’re looking for more in-depth support that covers the whole application process for Medicine, Law and Oxbridge courses, them find out how you can enrol in one of our Premium Programmes .  

Start your Oxbridge application journey in the best way possible with effective support from our Oxbridge Tutors . 

Regardless of what changes are made to the Oxbridge admissions process, we will be ready to provide you with the very best support for your application. Our students have access to expert Oxbridge tutors, comprehensive online courses, intensive preparation events and so much more. 

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Explore ucas tips and guidance for 2024.

Table of Contents

Most students rely on UCAS for support and guidance since it works as a toolkit to get information about the university, its application process, apprenticeships and a wide range of other resources that can be used for applying to universities in the United Kingdom . The service is commonly known as the UCAS application services where all the international uses it to plan and organize the application carefully. Don’t not leave your filling in process up to the last moment as there’s tons of work to do!

UCAS application tips and tricks to make you stand out from the crowd

Decide what you want to study.

This is the first step to prepare an excellent UCAS application. Start by researching the subject of your interest, then streamline the subject of your choice.

Decide where to study in UK

With the search tool of ucas, you can find the different universities that offer courses of interest that you desire. Try attending fairs, events and getting a feel for the university, its campus etc.

Do extra research and study on your course

Say, if your heart is set on literature, you can read more about new writers and authors that are not in your curriculum and it can help you make a great personal statement.

Be realistic on your choices

You may find the course of interest with the university your heart desires, but will you meet their short lists grades? You might end up in rejection and miss other great opportunities. The UCAS advisors are aware of highly competitive courses and can guide you accordingly.

Starting early is the key to securing a seat at the university

It can get very competitive to apply to the Best universities in UK as they appeal to students from across the world. So, if you do not want to miss out on that seat, we advise you to start applying easily and get time to read, review and edit the forms and details.

Write an attention-grabbing personal statement

This is your time to shine and show the university how you can be an essential part of the institution and how the course you will be learning will help make an impact in the challenges faced by the world.

Check, Check till you reach a checkmate point

This is the last and last time you can review and edit the application. While filling out the application, be honest and true to your statement. It’s advisable to get someone to review and check up on the application before you hit the send button. Once you are good to go, apply.

What is the cost of ucas application fee?

For 2024 entry: the application fee will be £27.50 for up to five choices.

For 2025 entry: the application fee will be £28.50 for up to five choices.

How to apply for ucas?

If you want to know how to apply through ucas, follow these simple steps below:

First Registration: how to register for clearing ucas

• Go on UCAS Hub.
• Confirm the year, studies and level of study.
• On the UCAS Hub Dashboard – Simply click “Start’.
• Fill in your first, last name.

Second: Complete details

• Fill in all mandatory questions.
• Enter an up-to-date email address.
• Enter residency status.
• Personal information(optional).
• Details on how to fund your education.
• Accessible information to parents or guardians.

Third: Add educational details

• Complete academic documents.
• Incomplete course documents.
• Pursing course documents.
• Include modules (optional).

Fourth: Employment history

• If you’ve been employed, company names, addresses, job descriptions, and start/finish dates.
• Do not include any voluntary work details, etc.

Fifth: Select the course and university

• You can select up to 5 courses and university as no one will be able to view the application to other universities.

Sixth: Write a personal statement

• It should at least be 1,000 characters long.
• It should be written on Microsoft Word and paste into the application.
• Mention why you’d like to study with them, and what skills and experience you have.

Seventh: Submit the application

• Read, review and edit before submission.
• Read and agree to the declaration.
• Hit the submit button and it will be processed by the universities.

How to accept an offer on ucas?

Choosing the university

• If you’ve applied for more than one course and got offers on them. You need to make a choice and check the deadline for submitting the offer.
• You can accept only one offer as your firm choice called the condition firm (CF) or unconditional firm (UF).
• If the choice is CF, then you can accept a second offer too called the insurance choice, conditional or unconditional.
• All other offers must be declined after accepting two offers from the university.

What happens when you accept an offer?

There are rules and regulations bounded by the university once an offer letter is accepted by an applicant.

• When an unconditional offer is firmly accepted by an applicant, there’s a seat secure at the university.
• When a condition offer is firmly accepted and all the conditions have been met by the applicant, then you are accepted and obliged to study in the university.

When you’ve declined an offer, it means you are released from all the seats at the university. If you want to decline all your offers, you can use UCAS Extra to add another course or wait to enter into Clearing. This is only if you would like to change the course or the subject.

If you would like to start off till the next year, you can always defer it instead of declining the offers.

How to add clearing choice on ucas?

This will depend on many factors, for one, are you eligible for clearing? Next, this depends on whether you are waiting for your exams results.

Ucas clearing how does it work?

For waiting results: you can add clearing choice if only the university applied to hasn’t accepted or offered you a place.

For non-waiting results: you will be able to add Clearing in early July if you are eligible for clearing.

How to add clearing?

• Go to the ‘Your choices’ section of your application.
• Click ‘Add Clearing choice’.
• Enter the details of the course.

Note : Only add a Clearing choice if you’ve been given permission by a uni.

The ucas guide is a helpful resource which you can find more details about everything you need as a student on the official website: https://www.ucas.com

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