Hi there, I'm Luna.
I'm a bit like an AI, except instead of making pictures of people with 16 fingers, I can help you find the perfect course and uni.
Would you like some help in your search?
Sophia got a place in uni after applying directly through Clearing. Hear her story.
There are many reasons why you’d apply through Clearing as a late applicant or a mature student. Perhaps you’re coming back to education after a break or have decided that now’s the best time to pursue a degree. Whatever the reason, you’re likely to find a place through Clearing.
Most people assume that this is a service students only use when they haven’t achieved their grades. Well, you’d be wrong. If you’re a late applicant or a mature student (anyone over the age of 21), then the experience of finding a course through Clearing will differ slightly to more traditional candidates entering after getting their results.
Here are some expert tips to keep in mind as you do your uni and course search using Clearing.
Get over the stigma of Clearing
A common misconception about Clearing is that it’s for failures. That couldn’t be further from the truth. Thousands of students every year release themselves into Clearing to find an alternative course. Clearing has become somewhat of a marketplace for students who may have either changed their mind about what they want to study or simply to explore better options. Once you start thinking of Clearing in this way, you’ll be focused on getting the best outcome from this service.
Use the early advantage as a mature student
Unlike sixth-form and college students who’ll be waiting for their results before turning to Clearing, mature students can start looking at courses from the moment the service opens on July 5th, 2024. At this point, there’s less competition for places so the process of calling hotlines and discussing your options can feel calmer and give you the headspace to consider your options.
Get your supporting documents ready
As a late applicant or a mature student, the information that Clearing hotlines will need from you will be slightly different compared to other applicants. You’ll need to have evidence that you can succeed on the course, so previous qualifications and work experience are important to have on hand. Keep your CV close by to reference relevant experience too. If you have alternative qualifications, these will also be considered.
Don’t forget about accommodation
If you’re going to relocate to university, you’ll need to investigate whether the uni you’re interested in still has availability for students applying later on in the year. Some unis guarantee a place in student accommodation for all first-year students, but some don’t. If this is the case, you may want to research private accommodation options in the event that halls are full. Speak to the accommodation team at the uni you’re interested in before accepting an offer to find this information.
