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UCAS Clearing: What You Need to Know

Didn’t get the A-level results you expected? You’re not alone, and you still have options.

Understanding Clearing and Its Role in Your U.K. University Application Journey

Whether you’re rethinking your choices or starting fresh, UCAS Clearing could be the opportunity you didn’t know you needed.

What Is UCAS Clearing?

UCAS Clearing is a U.K.-based admission process that helps students find university places that haven’t yet been filled. It typically runs from early July through October and is open to:

  • Students who didn’t receive any university offers
  • Students who didn’t meet the conditions of their offers
  • Students who declined all their offers
  • Students applying after the June 30 deadline

Clearing is available to U.K. and international applicants. It’s especially helpful if you applied late, changed your mind, or didn’t secure a place at your initial university choices.

In 2025, Clearing officially opens on July 5 and closes on October 20.

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What to Expect During Clearing

Clearing moves quickly. Staying proactive and informed will help you make the most of it.

Research Your Options

Explore available courses and universities. Keep an open mind. You may find a better fit than your original plan.

Contact Universities Directly

Call admissions offices to ask about availability, entry requirements, and how to receive a verbal offer.

Add a Clearing Choice on UCAS

Once you’ve received a verbal offer and you’re ready to commit, log in to your UCAS account to add your Clearing choice.

Why Is AUC Talking About UCAS Clearing? 

Contact

Information on AUC’s U.K. Track in Preston is available at +1 721-545-2298.

Contact Us

If your long-term goal is a career in medicine, getting into the right undergraduate program now is your first step.

AUC partners with the University of Lancashire in Preston, U.K., to offer a 6-year Doctor of Medicine program to qualified students who do not yet hold a bachelor’s degree. Students begin by earning a BSc (Hons) Medical Sciences at University of Lancashire, then remain in the U.K. or move to AUC’s Sint Maarten campus to complete the Medical Sciences portion of the MD program. You can apply to our U.K. Track at University of Lancashire through Clearing.

Clearing FAQ

This FAQ will provide you with the tools and insights you need to help you understand and navigate clearing to help you secure a seat in medical school.

Can I Use Clearing?

Yes. If you don’t have a confirmed place by July 5, UCAS will automatically place you into Clearing (as long as you’ve paid the full application fee). If you originally applied for just one course, you’ll need to pay a £4.50 top-up to access Clearing.

Should I Use Clearing?

Clearing isn’t right for everyone, but it could be a smart move if:

  • You missed your predicted grades or did better than expected.
  • You’re considering new universities or courses.
  • Your original choices no longer feel like the right fit.

Some courses may even lower entry requirements during Clearing, so it’s worth exploring.

How Do I Use Clearing?
  1. Log in to UCAS and get your Clearing number.
  2. Contact universities directly and speak with admission advisors.
  3. Wait for your results. You’ll need them before you can officially apply.
  4. Once you receive a verbal offer, add your chosen course in UCAS.
Is Clearing different for international students?

The process is similar, but you may need to meet additional requirements, like applying for a visa or providing proof of English proficiency. Some universities reserve places specifically for international applicants.

When can I apply?

Clearing opens on July 5, but you can only add a Clearing choice once you’ve received your grades and a verbal offer.

Is Clearing only for undergraduate admission?

Primarily, yes. Clearing is designed for undergraduate applicants. While some medical or dental schools occasionally offer limited Clearing seats, most postgraduate and graduate-entry medical courses—including AUC’s MD program—use separate application processes.

Is Clearing first-come, first-served?

Yes. The earlier you act, the better your chances of securing a place.

What Should I Expect?

Clearing is fast-paced and competitive. On results day (the day A-level results are released), be prepared to:

  • Spend time researching options.
  • Make phone calls.
  • Move quickly. Clearing works on a first-come, first-served basis.

Not Sure Clearing Is for You?

That’s OK. Clearing isn’t your only option. You might choose to:

  • Reapply during the next admission cycle.
  • Take a gap year.
  • Explore alternative educational or career pathways.
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Ready to Explore Your Future?

If you’re planning a career in medicine, AUC may be the right next step.

Learn more about our MD program, entry requirements, and how we can help you achieve your dream of becoming a doctor.

Request Information

Where Does AUC Fit In?

At AUC, we welcome future doctors from all walks of life—including those who find their footing through Clearing. When you’re ready to take the next step in your medical journey, AUC offers:

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Flexible Start Dates

Begin in September, January, or May; no need to wait a full year.

No MCAT or UCAT Required

Admission tests are not required for most U.K. and international applicants.

Accredited and Globally Recognized

Graduates are eligible to practice in the U.K., the U.S., and beyond.

Supportive Community

Benefit from small average incoming class sizes,1 personalized support, and a close-knit environment.

1Incoming class sizes at AUC’s Sint Maarten campus for 2023–24 were well below the average class size for U.S. schools in January and May, and higher than average in September.