What even is Clearing?

A good way to think about Clearing is as your last opportunity to choose a university place for this year (exciting, right?)

So why apply via Clearing?

Well, there’s no simple answer to this. Everyone has their own individual Clearing journey but generally speaking there are four reasons to use Clearing:

  1. You wanted to get your results before making any applications. Patience is a virtue, right? You wanted to wait to get your grades before choosing where to apply.
  2. You just changed your mind. Better grades, worse grades, exactly what you were expecting grades. Maybe you just want to change your mind. You may want to do a different course, study somewhere else, or perhaps you never thought university was for you but now you want to give it a shot.
  3. You didn’t get the grades you’d hoped for. If on results day you open your results and you’re faced with lower grades than expected, don’t panic. If you haven’t met the required grades to have your place confirmed by your Firm or Insurance choices, Clearing is for you.
  4. You got better grades than you’d hoped for. Picture the scene – come results day you open your results and find out that you absolutely smashed it and exceeded your expectations, so now you want to upgrade your university place.

Each year thousands of applicants find their university places through Clearing. We’ve even shared some of our current students’ Clearing stories so hopefully you’ll realise you’re not alone...

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Abigail's Clearing Story

"Coming to uni in 2022 was a bit of a last-minute decision for me. I was working as a support worker and although I enjoyed it, I wanted something more fulfilling. I learned about Occupational Therapy through my work and instantly felt like it was something I’d want to do. After researching I found Essex offered the course, but this was in August so I wasn’t sure if I’d missed my chance. When I saw I could apply through Clearing I made an impulse decision. I applied for the course, quit my job and had every faith in myself that I would be accepted onto the course! It felt a bit daunting but the Clearing process was fast and easy - I’m so glad I went with my gut and just went for it! The whole thing happened so quickly, it was really exciting and I’ve shown myself that I can tackle anything – I feel more confident in taking the plunge and doing the things I’ve always wanted to do."

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Why choose Essex in Clearing?

Earn £250 by completing the Essex Preparation Programme
You can learn a new language for a year, for free
Free data science courses are available for all students
Essex is top 40 in the UK (Complete University Guide 2023)
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