What you need to know about supporting someone through Clearing

When results day is just around the corner, it’s not only students who feel the pressure — parents, guardians, and supporters do too. If someone you care about is thinking about university, or might be going through Clearing, you might be wondering: how can I help without taking over?

This guide explains briefly what univeristy Clearing is, why more students are using it, and how you can offer the right support at the right time.

TL;DR

Essential prep steps, empathetic communication, and keeping options open are key takeaways.

Clearing can be stressful—this guide helps parents and friends offer practical and emotional support.

Advice covers planning together, preparing documents, being a sounding board, and celebrating choices.

What is Clearing – and why might your young person use It?

Clearing is a UCAS process that allows students to apply for a university place. It’s used by thousands of students every year — not just those who didn’t get their grades.

They might be using Clearing because:

• They didn’t apply yet
• They changed their mind about their course or university
• They want to “trade up” to a different place or course
• They didn’t meet the conditions of their firm or insurance offer (i.e. didn’t get the grades)

Clearing has become a normal, proactive way for students to take control of their future — and it’s supported by experienced university teams ready to help.

How can parents and guardians offer support during Clearing?

The best thing you can do is to stay calm, informed and available. Your student will probably be feeling the pressure, so your steady presence matters more than you think.

Here’s how you can help:

• Listen to what they want — and respect if it changes
• Be there while they make phone calls or shortlist options
• Offer to check logistics like travel or accommodation
• Encourage them, especially if they feel like they’ve failed — they haven’t

“It was a stressful morning, but having someone help me talk through the options made it much easier.”

Tasha, Civil Engineering student

Helping with decisions: Questions to ask and talk through

Students might feel unsure about what matters most in a university. As a supporter, you can help them think clearly.

Here are some helpful prompts:

• Do they like the course content?
• Would they be happy in the location?
• Is there support if they need help settling in?
• What kind of careers could it lead to?

What about finances?

Finances are often a big concern — for students and their families.

Here’s what to know:

• Clearing students can still apply for student finance.
• Brighton offers dedicated financial support for Clearing applicants.
• Encourage conversations about budgeting, living costs, and available bursaries.

“The extra financial support helped me say yes to Brighton. It made the move feel possible.”

Alaa, Law LLB (Hons)

Supporting your student’s wellbeing during Clearing

Clearing can feel overwhelming, especially if your student didn’t get the results they were hoping for. Your support can make all the difference.

Here’s how to help:

• Remind them this is an increasingly popular way to get tinto university
• Be available for reassurance, but avoid adding pressure
• Help them stay focused with a clear list of next steps
• Trust that they’ll find the right path, even if it’s unexpected

At Brighton, our Clearing team is trained to handle these conversations with care. They’re friendly, experienced, and understand that each student’s journey is unique.

How to be ready for results day

A little planning goes a long way. Here’s how to help your student get ready:

• Have their UCAS ID and key documents to hand
• Make a shortlist of universities and course codes
• Save Clearing phone numbers in a notes app or document
• Practice what they might say on the phone

I saved all the university numbers in my phone and had a list of course names. Being prepared helped me stay calm.

Alaa, Law LLB (Hons)

Final advice for parents, guardians and supporters

You don’t have to have all the answers. Just being present, informed and supportive will mean the world to your student.

Remember:

• They might be disappointed with their exam results — but there’s still opportunities
• Clearing can lead to brilliant outcomes
• With your help, they can stay calm and make a confident choice