Answering Your Questions About Clearing!

With the clearing season approaching, there may be a number of reasons you are considering taking up the opportunity to start your future and get the degree you need to be skilled and qualified for your dream career! However, not everyone is fully aware of what clearing is and who it applies to. Therefore, we have put this blog together, so you don’t have to spend hours researching. Find out everything you need to know by reading on… 

What is clearing? 

Let’s start off with the most common and basic question of all, what actually is clearing? Well, clearing in simple terms is the perfect second opportunity to apply for university. If you do not already have an offer, do not be harsh on yourself. There are multiple reasons students miss the original UCAS deadline to apply. Clearing is not a backup, it's just another option! You may have had a change of mind about the course you want to study or want to study closer to home. But whatever your reason is, it is valid. 

Universities use clearing to fill empty seats on their courses. So, you may be lucky and find the course you want at the university you want and receive an offer. However, it’s not always a simple process for students. You may have chosen a course that is popular or that isn’t offered at many places. This can make it more difficult to find a university with empty spots. Although, do not fear; there are always alternative options such as finding a new course you wouldn’t mind studying. 

Who can apply through clearing? 

This is a frequently asked question that many students are unsure of who is eligible to apply through clearing. 

If you: 

- Are applying after the 30th of June 

- Did not receive an offer or accept any 

- Did not meet the conditions of your offer 

- You received better grades than expected and want to change course or university 

- Paid the multiple application fees 

If you have already applied through UCAS for this current academic year and plan on applying for a full-time undergraduate course, then you will need to refer yourself through UCAS My Application.  

If this is your first time applying, you can apply directly through the University website. 

What if I am an international student? 

Circumstances may be different for you if you are an international student. If you haven’t applied for a student visa, you may be put in a difficult situation. Some universities may require you to take tests to secure a place. But do not worry! International and EU students can apply through clearing if they have: 

- Applied through UCAS at an earlier stage (including after 30th June) 

- Been rejected by your firm and insurance choices 

- Applied before 30th June but didn’t receive an offer  

- Qualified academically for a firm or insurance offer but decided not to take it up 

- Paid the full application fee 

If you are an international student wanting to apply through clearing, you should start the process as quickly as possible! 

How to prepare for a clearing application 

When calling up to apply, being prepared will put your mind at ease and allow you to go through the application rapidly. (It’s also important to note that with quick verbal permission from yourself, someone else can call on your behalf.)  

Before calling ensure you have: 

- Your UCAS number (if you have applied through UCAS) 

- A list of qualifications (including GCSEs) 

- Pen and paper 

- Personal statement  

If you can, pre-registering for clearing will make your application even more smooth and put you in a position where you can quickly get on to your route to success after collecting your results. 

When can I apply for clearing? 

Clearing applications for 2023 will be open from the 5th of July and close in September. 

To call for a clearing application or any enquiries to do with the matter, contact us on the number 0808 281 1111 or email clearing@bolton.ac.uk. To find out when the University of Bolton phone lines are open, please follow the link here.  

There are multiple reasons students miss the original UCAS deadline to apply. Check out our other clearing blogs for more guidance and reassurance about your decision. 

- Clearing is not the end of the world! 

- The Current Cost-of-Living Crisis – Why Clearing May Be an Option for You 

- Not sure what university to go to – Clearing 2023 

- Clearing 2023: The University of Bolton 

If you are looking to apply to the University of Bolton via clearing, follow this page linked here to find out all the information you need to know on how to successfully be prepared. If you are unsure of what direction to head in, you will also find our quiz that helps to identify your strengths and what areas you are likely to excel in! 

We hope some of the questions you have are answered! For general enquiries contact us at 01204 903903 or email enquiries@bolton.ac.uk. Come & enjoy #UniAsItShouldBe.