Finding the right course for you in Clearing

When it comes to contacting universities and colleges about courses in Clearing, it’s important to act quickly but that doesn't mean making a hasty decision. While you need to be proactive you also need to be sure that the course you accept is right for you. We asked admissions staff from universities and colleges to share their advice on researching courses effectively in Clearing – read on to find out what they told us...

Stewart Harper – Head of Student Admissions, Leeds Metropolitan University
  

Stewart Harper,
Leeds Metropolitan 

University

For those that are due to receive A level, BTEC or other exam results this summer, deciding what to do next may be an ever-present thought. The most important thing is not to panic; many universities still have places on a wide range of courses and we are here to help you.

Clearing isn’t a ‘second best’ option, but rather a process by which thousands of students each year find the course that is just right for them. As with the main UCAS cycle, the key is to make sure that you research the course and university, and if possible go and visit – we have opportunities to come and see our campuses on the Friday and Saturday after A level results for example, and that often serves to reassure applicants about the choices they are making.

It is difficult to get the same depth of research done in a few days as across the whole application cycle, so you can make a start now and see what vacancies universities are already advertising – our website also carries details of what UCAS Tariff points you need. You’ll need to consider the balance between different options within the same subject area – practical or theoretical, for example – that suits your own personal style or preferences.  

If you aren’t yet eligible to apply through Clearing (for example, if you are still waiting for your results) then keep a note of the courses or universities that attract you so that you don’t have to repeat the exercise, and if you are going to be away on results day take those notes with you – don’t forget that nobody else can do your application for you!

Doing your research now will put you ahead of the game and come September allow you to start on a really exciting journey!

(From 22 September 2014 Leeds Metropolitan University will become Leeds Beckett University.)

Emma Powell – Admissions Officer, the Edge Hotel School 
  

Emma Powell,
the Edge Hotel School

It’s never too early to prepare 
If you don’t have a place, or think you might not get the grades you need, think about your options before you have your results. Most universities let you visit and speak to admissions staff, so you can start to weigh up your options before it’s time to make a decision. It’s always a good idea to have a back-up plan – or even better, several!

On the day
Check the Clearing vacancies in The Telegraph and on the UCAS website, and look on institutions’ websites – many have a dedicated Clearing page. This is why preparing beforehand is useful – if you have an institution in mind you can call them to ask about Clearing vacancies or find them in the vacancy lists. At the Edge Hotel School we ask students interested in applying through Clearing to call us first.  

Questions you should ask
Some universities might want to interview you over the phone so make sure you’re not in a rush! We understand it’s a stressful time, but think about why you want to study there, what the course is about and what your job prospects might be. Doing research will make all the difference to making a good impression. 
  
You need to make sure it’s the right course for you and the place you want to be for the next few years. As well as answering questions that admissions staff ask, it’s important to have questions of your own. How will you be assessed? How long will you be in lectures? What links are there with industry? What accommodation is available? Ask when you would start – the Edge Hotel School has start dates in January, May and September.  

Getting the place
Make sure you check your emails as admissions staff may contact you following your call with useful information about open days and how long you have to decide.

Amber Clabburn – Clearing Adviser, Kaplan Holborn College

  

Amber Clabburn,
Kaplan Holborn College

Research before results day, just in case
It’s a good idea to plan and research courses in advance of results day. That way you will already have options if you find yourself in Clearing, which means less stress and panic on the day.

Research similar courses to the ones you’ve applied for. Remember to consider the ‘additional extras’ the course may offer, such as placements or professional qualification exemptions. Most important of all: check that you meet the basic entry requirements – though these are sometimes altered in Clearing.

Researching on results day
If you find yourself in Clearing, it is important that you effectively research courses and institutions – after all, you are investing two to four years of your life at university or college.

There are many things to consider, so try not to rush the search too much. Chances are you know roughly what you want to study, so look on ucas.com, institution websites and in the Telegraph to find institutions that have spaces in your chosen subject area. 

Be realistic when considering courses; ask yourself the basic questions e.g. Do you meet the entry criteria? Would you be interested in moving to or commuting to that location?

Questions for admissions tutors
Ask anything and everything, but stay calm. After all, it is the admissions tutor’s job to help you. And don’t worry if you think that you are asking something silly – chances are someone will have asked this before. Feel free to ask even the most seemingly insignificant questions if they help ease your concerns. Although Clearing is a busy period for any institution, the staff at the end of the phone will be pleased to help you. 

And finally...
Try not to rush your decision; whatever it may be. Speak to teachers, parents, friends – anyone who can give you advice from their own experience. If you make the most informed choice you can, it’s likely to be the right one for you.

Sophie Rowell – Admissions Co-ordinator, Nottingham Trent University 

Sophie Rowell,
Nottingham Trent University

  
Results day can be a daunting time, particularly if you don’t do as well as you’d hoped. If you don’t quite meet the conditions of the offers you hold, you can enter into the Clearing process. This is another chance to find a course of interest, now that you know your results. 

It’s beneficial for you to prepare for Clearing in advance of results day. Look at universities asking for slightly lower grades to do your course of choice, think about where you would like to live in the country, and have a think about which courses match your skills and interests. Some universities publish their Clearing vacancies early, and it doesn’t hurt to have a look at some courses which may be of interest. Parents and teachers may be able to suggest some universities that you hadn’t thought of previously, or courses that you hadn’t yet considered.

If you end up going through the Clearing process on results day, the most important thing is not to panic! There are plenty of spaces at universities up and down the UK, and it’s essential that you take your time to research the courses and universities thoroughly. Make sure that you call the Clearing hotline yourself, rather than getting someone else to call, and have your results and a pen and paper in front of you. Admissions agents are there to help you find a great place in Clearing, not to catch you out! 

We’ve put together some advice guides full of hints and tips to help you prepare for results day. From the ten golden rules for Clearing, to a step-by-step guide, we’ll talk you through what to expect on the day and how to approach the Clearing process. Go to www.ntu.ac.uk/clearing to find out more. 

Rebecca Heron – Student Recruitment Manager, Lancaster University 

  

Rebecca Heron, Lancaster University

If you think that you might be in Clearing, then the best thing you can do is prepare in advance! Even if there’s only a slim chance, it’s always best to have a contingency plan just in case you don’t do as well as you expected. 

First off, make a list of universities that you might consider – check that they offer your course, and look at the entry grades. You might want to revisit some of the universities that were in your original UCAS choices – you could always give them a call to see if they expect your specific course to be in Clearing.

Next, list your preferred universities in priority order – that way you'll know which to call first on results day. Most universities will open early to cope with demand - the most popular will receive thousands of calls for a limited number of places, so it’s a good idea to make a note of telephone numbers and opening times in advance, and call as soon as they open in order to beat the queues.

Don’t make the call without having done your research first – at least know whether the course is available and what the entry grades are. Your experience could differ greatly depending on the university – some may just run through your grades, whilst others may conduct a telephone interview, so be prepared for either. 

You’ll have to make a decision quite quickly, but you still need to make sure that it’s the right choice - whilst you’re on the phone ask about the modules that you’ll be studying, and find out if accommodation is guaranteed for Clearing students. 

Try to visit the university before you accept an offer – most will have visiting opportunities in the days following Clearing, so ask when you call.

Sarah Temlett & Lucy Dixon – Admisisions Support Unit, University of Sunderland

   
Our top tips for Clearing:

Sarah Temlett & Lucy Dixon,
University of Sunderland

Sarah: “Don’t be shy! Whoever you speak to will want to help you and provide advice tailored to your qualifications and the courses you’re interested in. Places may be limited so don’t be afraid to sell yourself and show your passion for your subject. A conversation with an Admissions Tutor may be an informal interview so have your personal statement to hand – you may want to reference it. If you’re not sure about an offer you’ve received, it’s OK to think it over and call the university back. Don’t take too long as places aren’t held indefinitely, but don’t feel you have to accept it there and then.”

Lucy: “Make sure your phone is charged and that you’re somewhere quiet – you may have to make several calls and you’ll have lots of information to take in. Have a pen and paper to write down the names and numbers of people you have spoken to, as well as any other information. Have a list of your qualifications and experience so university staff have the best chance of finding a course for you. Don’t forget – the university may want to know about your GCSE or equivalent qualifications too."

Questions to ask during Clearing:
Sarah: “If you don’t meet the requirements for a course or there are no places, ask what else is available. Other courses may have different requirements, so there may be a similar course or a foundation course you can get on to. If you ask about a course with professional accreditation, for example social work, always ask the Admissions Tutor how much experience you need to have." 

Lucy: “Ask about the availability, location and cost of accommodation. We have fantastic accommodation here at Sunderland, with great broadband speeds and at reasonable prices. Ask about any financial help that’s available, including bursaries and scholarships. There's more about the scholarship package at the University of Sunderland on our website."

Clearing: making the call

If you’re reading this blog, chances are your status in Track says “You are in Clearing”. If not then maybe you’re preparing for every eventuality. Whether you’re expecting to use Clearing or not, the steps you need to follow to get a place on a course are the same: use the Clearing vacancy search at ucas.com to find courses, contact unis to ask if they’ll consider your application and then if you’re offered a place, add it as your Clearing choice in Track.

Sounds pretty straightforward, right? I mean, if you find a course that’s right for you on results day, and you make a good impression on the phone, then the uni offers you a place, you could be done with Clearing by mid-afternoon. But that depends on a few ifs, a few unknowns. So right now we’re going to tackle how you can make a good impression, and the key to this is being prepared.

Here, six universities and colleges tell you what you can expect from your conversations with them in Clearing – what they’ll want you to know, the types of questions they’ll ask, and equally as important – what you should ask them. Use their advice to make notes to keep with you before you pick up the phone and dial, and you’ll feel more confident when you come to tell them why you’d make a great student for their course.

Alix Delany – Assistant Head of Admissions, University of East Anglia 

Alix Delany, University of East Anglia

I’ve taken part in many results days whilst working in admissions at the University of East Anglia.  I get a huge sense of satisfaction when a student secures a place through clearing. I enjoy getting to talk to the student on the phone and I know that I will be meeting them in a month’s time, when they join the university.

If you are in clearing on results day, start with a positive attitude.

Most universities will have vacancies showing on ucas.com and on their own websites. Check both to see what’s on offer and how the university wants to be contacted. For us, it’s best to call.

Remember, the people at the end of the phone line want to help you. Typically you will be asked for your UCAS Personal ID and your results.  You may also be asked for certain GCSE subjects and grades, so it’s worth having details of them to hand.  The person you are talking to will take you through some questions about the subjects you studied and the grades achieved. If you need something repeated or you have questions don’t be rushed, take your time.

If you are offered a place, ask how long the offer is guaranteed for and what happens next.   For example, at UEA we send an email confirming our offer with accommodation details and how you can visit if you want to see us before you make your final decision.

If you put the phone down and realise you forgot to ask something, don’t panic, call back.
 

Emma Dermott – Social Media Officer, University for the Creative Arts

    

Emma Dermott,
University for the Creative Arts

Don’t be afraid to speak to university admissions teams in advance, they are there to help you and are the best source of information. Introduce yourself and talk through your individual circumstances. There is a lot they can do to help students leading up to results day.

We recommend you ask as many questions as you need to, including concerns with your grades, whether you’ve changed your mind about a course, student loans, entry requirements or fees. The bottom line is: don’t be afraid to ask.

When you call, have your UCAS ID, your Clearing number, the codes of the courses you’re interested in as well as your email address and telephone number close to hand.

Admissions teams will ask you what you want to do, what grades you received and what expectations you have of university. This is to ensure they give you the best possible advice.

Top tips we firmly believe in are:

1. Don’t wait! If you’ve already received your results then call us now – we are ready to speak to you about your options.
2. Prepare and research your options – be proactive and identify your interests in advance.
3. Have details of your qualifications in front of you when you call. 
4. And finally, we’re happy to speak to your mum/dad/guardian afterwards, but we need to speak to you first! 

Our short video about the Clearing process also contains lots of advice to help you.

Bernard Strutt - Head of UK/EU Recruitment at The University of Manchester

    

Bernard Strutt,
The University of Manchester

Information you should have to hand 
If you're exploring opportunities though clearing you should have your clearing number and exam results to hand. Remember to check UCAS Track - your eligibility for Clearing and your designated Clearing number will be shown in your account. It's also a good idea to have a pen and paper to hand to take down any details. If you’ve already signed up to have email updates about potential Clearing vacancies at Manchester then make sure you’ve noted down the course you’re interested in
  
Making the most of your phone call
We recognise that clearing can be a little daunting and we encourage you to call on the support of parents, teachers and advisors. But don't be afraid to pick up the phone yourself. Our team at The University of Manchester need to speak to you, not your parents or teachers. We want to understand your motivations and your aspirations and to make an assessment about whether you'll be a good fit for the course. 

Whilst some students forget to keep essential information to hand, the most common mistake I see is students being too quick to pick up the phone. We appreciate you'll be keen to speak to universities to avoid missing out on the best places, but don't rush. Even a couple of minutes preparation can make all the difference in helping make a good first impression and demonstrating that you're a credible candidate. Take the time to understand your options and research the right university for you. 
  
Questions you can expect to be asked
Whilst admissions staff can see your full application, expect to be asked to confirm the qualifications you've taken and the results you've received. Remember you may be speaking directly to an academic admissions tutor, so it's important that you convey some understanding of the subject and express your motivations clearly. You may also be asked about extracurricular activities and experiences. Think back to your personal statement and how your skills and experiences relate to the course that you're applying to.
  
Questions you should ask
Think about the questions you asked when you first made your application. What and how will you be taught, and how will you be assessed? Ask about course variants –  re you interested in studying abroad or gaining some industry experience as part of the course?

Stacy Lloyd – Admissions Manager, York St John University

   

York St John University

Here at York St John University we understand how daunting the Clearing process can be, however, if you fully prepare, we can make it as stress-free as possible! Here are our top tips to help you:

First of all, we can’t speak to family members on your behalf – we need to speak to you as it’s you who will be applying to the university.

Make sure you have your Personal ID and your Clearing number ready – we can’t log you on to our systems without it and you will be flustered trying to find it whilst on the phone to us. 

Remember to have your results close by – sounds simple but this helps speed the process up.
There are several standard questions that we will ask:  what recent study do you have and does it meet the minimum institution requirements (A Levels and GCSE)? Do you need accommodation? Do you need to speak to someone in disability services?

You can ask questions too! Write some key questions down before you call us and use them as a prompt throughout the conversation. Good questions are: what support is available? Will I get accommodation? What financial support will I receive? If you are given an offer, don’t be side-tracked!  If you still have questions, make sure you ask them.

Finally, we know it is a lot to take in but it is really important that you pay attention to what you are told on the phone. There may be things you need to do and you need to be aware of what they are.
  

Lydia Wakefield – Senior Partnership & Recruitment Officer, Kaplan Holborn College

If you didn’t quite get the results you were hoping for, DON’T panic. If you’re going to use Clearing, the list of courses is available in The Telegraph, at www.ucas.com and on university and college websites. 55,700 students accepted places through clearing in 2012, so you certainly won’t be alone!

Lydia Wakefield,
Kaplan Holborn College

Here’s our advice to help you before and during your phone calls in Clearing.

Before you pick up the phone, remember…

• Have your UCAS ID number ready, it will be one of the first things you are asked for.
• Make sure your phone is charged and call from a quiet place (you don’t want it to cut out just as you’re about to be made an offer!).
• Ask admissions staff lots of questions about the university and courses. 
• Make notes – this will help you make an informed decision if you are offered a place. 

What questions do we ask?

• “What is your UCAS ID?”
• “Are you already holding an offer?” If you are you will not be eligible to apply through Clearing – if you know you haven’t met the conditions of your offer you’ll become eligible if this changes to unsuccessful.
• Personal details – so have your contact info close by.
• "What are your qualifications?” Have these on hand when you call. 
• “Why are you interested in the university and course?”

You don’t need to accept the first offer you get – most institutions will hold a place for you for an agreed period. But when you are accepted on to a course that is right for you, the university or college will issue you with an unconditional offer. Your university or college will send you details on what you need to do next. Read it carefully in case there is anything you need to do before your start.

Check out Kaplan Holborn College’s website for more advice from us about Clearing.

Bhavesh Varsani – Admissions Process Adviser, University of Westminster

  
Don't panic
If you do need to call, getting through to universities on results day can be quite stressful. Persist and eventually you will get through. At the University of Westminster we have 70 team members in our Clearing Enquiry Team to assist you. 

University of Westminster

Be prepared
Make sure you have enough credit and battery on your phone. Our 0800 027 9777 number can save you from a huge phone bill, however some mobile phone operators will charge.

Keep your UCAS Personal ID to hand. Some universities will also give you a reference number specific to them – we give applicants an eight digit Westminster ID number, so if you get one of these make sure you write it down. Often we will ask you to speak to the admissions office or an academic for a final decision.  It’s a good idea to take their name and number before you are put through, just in case you get cut off and you need to call them back.

If you have retaken your GCSEs you may be asked to wait for your results before a final offer can be made to you. It’s still worth calling on the day, as we’d still be happy to talk to you.

If you got your results last year we may ask you what you have been doing since then, so be prepared to answer such questions.

Be available
Some of our courses, such as Electronic Engineering, will want to interview applicants before making an offer. Other universities and colleges may differ, and it’s a good idea to ask about this in case you need to change your plans so that you’re available.

You should be contactable all day on results day, so make sure you have access to your emails, as we will email you to confirm any offers we make to you. Remember to regularly check your junk email folders too and add westminster.ac.uk to your safe senders domain list. If you can, provide us with two telephone numbers just in case we need to call you. Good luck!