Clearing is your opportunity to find a university course that fits—even if your original plans didn’t go the way you expected. Whether you didn’t get the grades you hoped for, you’ve changed your mind, or you’re applying late, Clearing 2025 gives you a real chance to start uni this September.
Here’s what you need to know, what’s new for 2025, and how to boost your chances of getting a place. Let’s delve into the details and see what’s changed over the last 12 months.
In this post, we will cover:
- Understanding the Clearing Process
- What’s new in Clearing 2025?
- Chances of Securing a Clearing Place
- Clearing Misconceptions
- Making the Most of Clearing
- How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a University Place Through Clearing
- Tips for Navigating Clearing Successfully
📢 Recently Updated for 2025
This post was last updated on 07 May 2025 with the latest university deadlines, finance changes, and student support updates. Stay informed by checking out our soon to be published 2025 University Updates.
🎓 Need more details? Browse our official university pages for comprehensive information.
Understanding the Clearing Process
Clearing is a part of the UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) application process. It’s a second chance if you’re a student who didn’t receive any offers, didn’t meet the conditions of your offers, or applied after the UCAS deadline.
It’s also an option if you’ve have had a change of heart about your course or university. For more details on how to use Clearing, visit the British Council’s guide on university Clearing.
What’s new in Clearing 2025?
In 2025, the university Clearing process has become even more student-friendly, with improved technology and support services designed to streamline your experience of applying.
Key changes to Clearing for 2025
Better Course Matching with Clearing Plus
UCAS’s Clearing Plus tool continues to improve. It helps you find courses that match your qualifications and interests, so you can explore good-fit options faster.
More Support from Universities
Unis know this can be a stressful time, so you’ll find more ways to prepare for Clearing and get help, including:
- Hotline numbers to call for advice
- Live chat with admissions teams
- Virtual open days and quick response times
It’s useful to know that if you’ve already received your grades but don’t have an offer from a university, you can use the Clearing service right away from the start date.
Generally, the process isn’t radically different from 2024, fundamentally it offers you the chance to explore different courses in Clearing and universities if your grades are not what you expected, whether they’re lower or higher.
Chances of Securing a Clearing Place
| Year | Number of 18-year-old UK Students Securing a Place Through Clearing | Total Number Securing a Place Through Clearing |
|---|---|---|
| 2019 | 33,000 | 73,000+ |
| 2020 | N/A | 82,915 |
| 2021 | 24,100 | 70,000+ |
| 2022 | 33,280 | 67,000 |
| 2023 | 38,140 | 67,990 |
| 2024 | 39,620 | 68,810 |
So, actually, your chances are pretty good.
- In 2024, over 68,000 students secured a university place through Clearing.
- Of these, 39,620 were UK 18-year-olds—the highest number ever.
(Source: UCAS)
Clearing is a popular and successful route into university—whether you’re applying with results in hand, rethinking your options, or exploring something completely new.
Clearing Misconceptions
A common misconception about Clearing is that it’s only for less popular courses. Typically some of these courses will have vacancies but as so many people use Clearing as a path to university admission, it’s not accurate to say they are ‘less popular’.
In reality, many reputable universities have courses available and can offer you a place through Clearing in 2025 and the odds of getting a university place remain high. With a little effort you can find quality programs that match your interests and qualifications at a university in Clearing that’s right for you.
Also, Clearing isn’t the route to a less popular university: If you don’t get the grades a university wanted, you may be able to apply for a very similar course at a different university.
Making the Most of Clearing
Clearing may seem like a mad dash to the finish, but it’s still worth taking the time to do your research. Make sure you’re choosing a course in Clearing and a university that are right for you. Remember, this is a decision that will shape your future, so it’s important to make an informed choice.
How to Increase Your Chances of Getting a University Place Through Clearing
Here’s 3 ways you can maximise your chances of securing a university place through Clearing:
- Be Proactive: Research potential courses and universities in advance and have a list of contact numbers ready.
- Be Flexible: You might not get into your first-choice university, but there are many excellent alternatives.
- Don’t Rush: Take your time to make the right decision. For more advice, check out our guide on how to apply through Clearing.
Tips for Navigating Clearing Successfully
Navigating Clearing can be stressful, but with the right approach, it can be a smooth process. Here are some tips for success:
- Do Your Research: Know the courses and universities you’re interested in.
- Be Prepared: Have all your documents ready, including your UCAS ID and exam results.
- Be Patient: Clearing can be busy, so expect some wait times.
- Be Proactive: Contact universities directly if you see a course you like
Support at Brighton: Making It Easier for You
The University of Brighton offers extra support to help you succeed through Clearing:
💸 Travel Support
If you’ll be commuting from home, you could be eligible for up to £700 towards travel costs in your first year.
💼 Part-Time Work Help
You’ll get access to the Student Jobs Hub, helping you find flexible work while you study.
💻 Free Tech Loans
Need a laptop? You can apply for a free technology loan if you meet the eligibility criteria.
🍴 Extra Cost-of-Living Support
Through Brighton Students’ Union, you’ll find free essentials like food, toiletries, and other resources.
Final Thoughts
Clearing in 2025 gives you a real opportunity to get onto a course you’re excited about—whether that’s Plan B or something totally new. Do your research, ask questions, and don’t panic. With the right approach, you’ve got a strong chance of getting a place that works for you.
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