Clearing 2018: How To Improve Your Chances Of A Successful Clearing Application

THE DREADED UCAS CLEARING

So you’ve got your results and you didn’t get what you hoped for, now is the time to keep a calm head as your dreams of university is still possible.

Clearing is a popular way to get into university if your haven’t quite achieved your grades. It’s a way for universities to fill their places left on courses so don’t worry, there’s plenty of opportunities left.

The first thing is to take a deep breath and relax and realise that there are many others around you who are going through the same process.

Going Through Clearing Doesn’t Have To Be Stressful

It’s how you respond next that counts. Gather your thoughts, your qualifications, pen and paper ready and start looking at which university and courses are available. Now is the time to be organised and focused.

Clearing is a busy time for universities, who sometimes outsource their calls to call centres, however don’t be surprised if you speak with course tutors, mentors or University recruitment staff as its all hand to the deck for universities. The absolute best way to see if a space is available at a university or course is by picking up the phone and calling, but be ready to be put in a queue, so have a cup of tea at hand.

 

Clearing Tip 1

1. Have these IMPORTANT pieces of information at hand as you will be asked them immediately:

– UCAS ID

– Personal clearing number

– Grades you got

– Course name and Code

 

They will need to confirm that you are the person wishing to apply so you cant pass this off to your parents, sibling or friend. Don’t worry about chatting to the staff as they are trained professionals there to assist you. If your grades aren’t good enough, they will let you know.

 

Clearing Tip 2.

Make clear notes of what each university tells you. Get them to confirm your email address and telephone number to make sure they have it correct. Also make a note of who you spoke to in case you need to follow up,.

 

Clearing Tip 3.

If your grades are good enough, most universities will now email the offer to you, but don’t stop there! Contact other universities in case they also offer you a place too as your not obligated to take up the offer. If you have a list of universities who offer you a space, you can take do a bit more research and compare the universities.

 

Clearing Tip 4.

Some universities may wish to speak to you in person about your grades (the dreaded interview!). This can happen straightaway on the phone, or later that day. Be completely open and honest in your interview (even better if you note down the reasons why you failed to hit your target , your goals and your plans after you study on paper in bullet point format) so you don’t get stuck for something to say. Always end the conversation on a positive note.

 

Clearing Tip 5.

Make sure you have researched the university prior, note down some interesting, relevant facts about the university to show that you aren’t just panicking.

 

Clearing Tip 6.

If you haven’t been to the university before, take a road trip to visit the campus. Meet the staff, the people, and the areas where you will be relocating. Also ask about their student accommodations and compare with the private student accommodations nearby.

 

Remember, not getting the grades you wanted can be stressful but its not the end of the world. Many students go through clearing and end up on great courses and some take a gap year to clear their heads and to refocus on their career. Your career is just beginning and there are diversions that you’ll face, this is just another one.