How to Call Universities During Clearing
- Revision Notes
- Jul 31
- 20 min read
Updated: Aug 17
Calling a university during Clearing can feel intimidating.
You may be worried that:
You will not know what to say
You will forget your grades
The call will feel like an interview
You will be rejected immediately
You will accidentally accept the wrong course
Everyone else will sound more confident
In reality, most Clearing calls are straightforward conversations.
You give the university your application details and grades, explain which course interests you and ask whether it can offer you a place.
The university may then:
Make an informal offer
Ask for further information
Suggest a related course
Arrange a short interview
Request a portfolio or certificates
Explain that the course is full
UCAS describes Clearing calls as two-way conversations rather than tests. The university is deciding whether you suit the course, while you are deciding whether the course and university suit you.
The basic call structure is:
Introduce yourself.
Name the course.
Give your UCAS details.
Explain your results.
Say why the course interests you.
Ask your own questions.
Confirm whether you have an offer.
Record the course code and deadline.
Ask for the details in writing.
For A-Level and other JCQ Results Day applicants in 2026, UCAS Hub opens at 08:00 on Thursday 13 August. Eligible applicants can add an agreed Clearing choice from 13:00.
You can contact and receive informal offers from several universities before deciding which one to add through UCAS Hub. However, you can add only one Clearing choice at a time.
Clearing Call Checklist at a Glance
Before calling, have:
UCAS Personal ID
Clearing number
Full qualification results
GCSE English and maths grades
Course title
Course code
University telephone number
Reasons you want the course
Questions about the course
Accommodation questions
Pen and paper
Charged phone
Quiet place with reliable signal
During the call:
Introduce yourself clearly.
Give accurate information.
Sound interested rather than apologetic.
Ask whether the course still has places.
Confirm whether you are being offered a place.
Ask about any conditions.
Record the offer deadline.
Confirm the course and campus codes.
Ask for written confirmation.
After the call:
Save your notes.
Read the course information again.
Check accommodation.
Compare any other offers.
Add the choice only when you are certain.
Meet the university’s deadline.
Do You Have to Call Universities During Clearing?
You will usually need to contact universities before adding them as a Clearing choice.
Calling is the most common method, but some universities also use:
Online Clearing forms
Live chat
Callback services
Email
Social media messaging
UCAS advises applicants to contact universities directly before adding a choice. It also notes that alternative communication methods may be available for students who cannot use the telephone or have hearing difficulties.
Follow the instructions published by the individual university.
Completing a university’s online Clearing form may begin the assessment, but it does not necessarily confirm your place. You may still need to speak to admissions, submit documents or add the course through UCAS Hub.
Why Do You Need to Contact the University First?
A course appearing in the UCAS Clearing search does not mean you automatically have a place.
The university needs to check:
Your qualifications
Subjects studied
GCSE requirements
Personal statement
Reference
Course availability
Any admissions tests
Portfolio or interview requirements
Before adding a Clearing choice, you must give the university your Personal ID and Clearing number so that it can assess your application. You should add the course only after the university has given you permission.
When Should You Call Clearing Universities?
Call after you have:
Checked your UCAS status.
Confirmed that you are eligible for Clearing.
Collected your actual results.
Found a course with current vacancies.
Read the basic course information.
Do not begin contacting universities purely because your grades are lower than your offer.
Your firm university may still have accepted you.
Check UCAS Hub first.
Read What Happens on A-Level Results Day? and What If You Miss Your UCAS Offer? before assuming that you need Clearing.
What If Your UCAS Decision Is Still Pending?
Contact the university already considering you before entering Clearing.
It may be:
Reviewing a near miss
Waiting for another qualification
Checking a specific offer condition
Waiting for a certificate
Considering an alternative course
When your application does not yet say that you are in Clearing, you may not have a Clearing number or be able to add a choice. UCAS advises applicants in this position to contact their existing universities because they may still be considering them.
What Time Should You Start Calling on Results Day?
You can begin researching and contacting Clearing universities once you know your results and status.
On Thursday 13 August 2026:
UCAS Hub opens from 08:00.
You can collect your grades according to your school or college’s arrangements.
You can call universities during the morning.
Eligible applicants can add a Clearing choice from 13:00.
This gives you time to speak to more than one university and compare the offers before entering a formal choice.
Check each university’s Clearing-line opening hours. Some open before 08:00, while others begin taking calls later.
What to Prepare Before a Clearing Call
UCAS recommends preparing your Personal ID, Clearing number, grades or UCAS Tariff points and notes explaining why you want the course. It also advises writing down each university, telephone number, course code and course title so that calls do not become mixed up.
Your UCAS Personal ID
Your Personal ID allows the university to find your application.
Keep it written down rather than relying on memory.
Your Clearing Number
Your Clearing number appears in UCAS Hub when you are eligible for Clearing.
It is separate from your Personal ID.
The university may ask for both.
Your Full Results
Prepare:
A-Level grades
BTEC result
T Level result
Other Level 3 qualifications
GCSE English Language
GCSE mathematics
Any relevant GCSE subject grades
Admissions-test results
English-language qualifications
Give the exact grades.
Do not:
Round grades up
Leave out a disappointing subject
Claim that a review is guaranteed to improve a result
Give predicted grades instead of achieved grades
The university will eventually verify your qualifications.
Your Course Details
Write down:
University
Course title
Course code
Campus code
Foundation-year status
Entry year
A university may offer several similar versions of a course.
For example:
Psychology
Psychology with a foundation year
Psychology with Counselling
Psychology with a placement year
Psychology at a partner campus
You need to know which one you are discussing.
Reasons You Want the Course
Prepare two or three brief points.
You might mention:
A particular module
Placement opportunities
Professional accreditation
Relevant experience
Career goals
Interest in the subject
Teaching or assessment style
UCAS recommends researching the university and course before calling and being ready to explain why you want the place.
Avoid saying only:
I need somewhere to go.
That may be honest, but it does not show that you have considered the course.
A List of Your Questions
Prepare questions about:
Offer
Course
Campus
Accommodation
Funding
Next steps
This prevents the conversation ending before you have checked something important.
A Call-Notes Sheet
Create one sheet or table for each university.
Information | Notes |
University | |
Telephone number | |
Course | |
Course code | |
Campus | |
Adviser’s name | |
Time of call | |
Offer made? | |
Conditions | |
Deadline | |
Accommodation | |
Evidence required | |
Next action |
After several calls, details can merge surprisingly quickly.
Future you will not thank present you for writing only “nice course, offer until later” on a scrap of paper.
Where Should You Make the Call?
Choose somewhere:
Quiet
Private
Comfortable
With reliable signal
With internet access
Where you can write notes
Where your phone can be charged
UCAS recommends making Clearing calls from a quiet place with a good telephone signal so that both sides can hear clearly.
Possible places include:
Home
School or college
Careers office
Library study room
Quiet café area
Parked car, provided someone else is driving
Avoid:
Crowded school corridors
Moving trains
Busy streets
Rooms where several other students are making calls
Anywhere you cannot access your documents
How to Start a Clearing Call
Keep the opening simple.
Clearing Call Script
Hello, my name is [full name]. I’m calling about Clearing places for [course title and course code].My UCAS Personal ID is [number], and my Clearing number is [number].I achieved [grades] in [subjects]. I’m interested in this course because [brief reason].Could you tell me whether you would consider my application?
You can keep the script in front of you.
You do not need to memorise it.
Shorter Version
Hello, my name is [name]. My UCAS ID is [number], and I achieved [grades]. I’m interested in studying [course]. Do you currently have places available?
UCAS uses a very similar example in its official Results Day guidance and notes that the university will then review the application and explain the possible options.
What If You Reach a Receptionist?
You can say:
Hello, I’m calling about an undergraduate Clearing application. Could you put me through to the Clearing admissions team, please?
Have the course name ready because universities may use separate lines for different departments.
What If You Are Placed on Hold?
Stay patient.
Results Day telephone lines can be busy.
While waiting:
Keep the course page open.
Review your questions.
Check your grades.
Do not begin another call from the same phone.
Keep an eye on your battery.
If the call disconnects, try again or use another official contact method.
What Will the University Ask During a Clearing Call?
Questions vary by university and course.
You may be asked:
What grades did you achieve?
Which subjects did you study?
What are your GCSE English and maths grades?
What course are you interested in?
Why do you want to study it?
Why are you interested in this university?
What happened with your original choices?
Do you have relevant experience?
Are you available for a short interview?
Do you need a Student visa?
Do you require disability support?
Can you provide a portfolio?
Are you willing to consider a foundation year?
Can you study at another campus?
These questions help the university decide whether:
You meet its requirements
The course fits your interests
Another route may suit you better
Additional checks are needed
“Why Do You Want This Course?”
A useful answer is:
I’m interested in [specific area], and I noticed that the course includes modules in [module or topic]. I also like the opportunity to [complete a placement, study abroad or work on practical projects]. I’m hoping to work towards a career in [area], so the course seems closely connected to my goals.
Avoid inventing enthusiasm for a course you have not researched.
“Why This University?”
You could mention:
Particular department
Specialist facilities
Placement links
Course structure
Location
Student support
Professional accreditation
Open-day experience
For example:
I’m interested in the placement opportunities and the way the course combines [area one] with [area two]. I have also researched the campus and think the location would suit me.
“What Happened with Your Original Choices?”
Answer honestly and briefly.
For example:
I narrowly missed the conditions of my firm offer, and my insurance choice was also unable to confirm me. I’m now looking carefully at courses that match my results and interests.
Or:
My original course is no longer the right fit for what I want to study, so I’m exploring alternatives through Clearing.
You do not need to criticise another university or provide a dramatic explanation.
“Would You Consider Another Course?”
Do not agree automatically.
Ask:
What is the exact course title?
Is a foundation year included?
Which campus is it taught at?
Why are you suggesting it?
How does it differ from my original choice?
Is it accredited?
Can I transfer later?
A related course may be a good option.
It may also be something you would never have chosen without the pressure of Clearing.
Is a Clearing Call an Interview?
Usually, a standard Clearing call is not a formal interview.
UCAS describes it as a straightforward two-way conversation rather than a test.
However, some courses may require a more detailed assessment.
This may apply to:
Medicine
Dentistry
Nursing
Teaching
Social work
Art and design
Performing arts
Architecture
Courses requiring a portfolio
Courses with professional suitability checks
The university may:
Conduct a short telephone interview
Arrange a video call
Request a portfolio
Ask for written work
Arrange an audition
Check occupational health or disclosure requirements
Ask:
Is this conversation part of the formal admissions assessment, or will there be another interview?
How to Sound Confident During the Call
You do not need to sound completely relaxed.
Admissions teams know that Results Day is stressful.
Focus on being:
Clear
Honest
Polite
Interested
Prepared
UCAS advises students to remain positive, enthusiastic and polite, even when they feel stressed.
Speak Slowly
Give numbers and grades carefully.
Pause after:
Personal ID
Clearing number
Course code
Telephone number
Email address
You can say:
Would you like me to repeat that?
Ask for Clarification
When you do not understand something, say:
Could you explain what that means for my application?
or:
Could you repeat the deadline, please?
Pretending to understand is much less useful than asking again.
Do Not Apologise for Using Clearing
Avoid starting with:
Sorry to bother you.
or:
I know my grades are not very good.
Try:
I’m calling to ask about Clearing availability for your Sociology course.
You are contacting a service the university has created specifically for this purpose.
Can a Parent Call the University for You?
Universities generally prefer to speak directly to the applicant. UCAS advises students to make the calls themselves rather than automatically handing the phone to a parent or guardian.
The university may need to discuss:
Your grades
Your motivation
Your application
Your personal circumstances
Your decision
A parent, carer or supporter can still help by:
Preparing questions
Researching courses
Checking accommodation
Taking notes
Tracking offer deadlines
Sitting beside you
What If You Cannot Use the Phone?
Contact the university through its advertised alternative method.
Possible options include:
Online form
Live chat
Email
Text relay
Social media
Support through your school or college
UCAS states that universities may offer alternative communication methods, including live chat and social media, for students who cannot or prefer not to telephone.
Where a disability or communication need affects the process, explain what support you require.
Questions to Ask About the Offer
The most important question is:
Are you offering me a place?
Do not leave the call assuming that a friendly discussion means an offer has been made.
Ask:
Are you formally offering me a place?
Is the offer unconditional?
Is it subject to any checks?
Do you need my certificates?
Do I need an interview or portfolio?
How long will the offer remain available?
What is the exact deadline?
Which course code should I add?
Which campus code should I use?
Will you send the offer in writing?
UCAS recommends asking how long the offer will remain available and confirms that students may receive informal offers before deciding which one to add.
Informal Offer vs Confirmed Place
An informal or verbal offer means the university is willing to accept you, subject to the information discussed.
It is not yet your confirmed UCAS place.
You normally need to:
Receive the university’s permission.
Add the course through UCAS Hub.
Wait for the university to confirm it formally.
Only add the choice once permission has been given. Adding it counts as accepting that Clearing offer.
Questions to Ask About the Course
Do not finish the call knowing only that the university will take you.
Ask whether you would actually want to attend.
Course Content
What are the compulsory first-year modules?
Which optional modules are available later?
How is the course assessed?
Are there examinations, coursework or practical assessments?
Is a dissertation required?
Are there opportunities for specialist study?
Course Structure
Does the course include a foundation year?
How long is the course?
Is a placement year included?
Can I add a placement later?
Is study abroad available?
Can I transfer between the bachelor’s and integrated master’s route?
Accreditation
Is the exact course professionally accredited?
Which body accredits it?
Does the foundation-year route lead to the same accredited degree?
Are particular modules required for accreditation?
Campus
Which campus is the course taught at?
Is all teaching at that campus?
Are specialist facilities elsewhere?
How far is accommodation from teaching?
Is transport provided?
Course Costs
Are there compulsory field trips?
Is specialist equipment required?
Are there laboratory, studio or placement costs?
Will I need particular software or a high-specification laptop?
Questions to Ask About Accommodation
UCAS advises students to ask about accommodation while discussing Clearing options.
Ask:
Is university accommodation still available?
Is it guaranteed for Clearing applicants?
Which halls currently have rooms?
Which campus are they near?
What is the total rent?
How long is the contract?
Are bills included?
What advance payment is required?
When is the accommodation deadline?
Is there a waiting list?
What private alternatives does the university recommend?
Do not accept the academic place on the assumption that accommodation will sort itself out later.
A brilliant course becomes considerably less convenient when the only affordable room you can find requires a heroic daily commute involving two buses and a regional train.
Questions to Ask About Financial Support
Ask:
Are scholarships still available?
Are Clearing applicants eligible?
Are bursaries automatic or application-based?
Is accommodation support available?
What deadlines apply?
Are there hardship funds?
Are there additional course costs?
Do not assume that a high-grade scholarship will be applied automatically.
Get the criteria and deadline in writing.
Questions for International Applicants
International applicants should also ask:
Will the university sponsor my Student visa?
Do my qualifications meet the course requirements?
Is my English-language qualification accepted?
Do you need translated certificates?
Is a tuition deposit required?
When can the university issue a CAS?
What is the latest arrival date?
Is accommodation available?
Which documents must I upload?
The core Clearing process is the same for international and UK applicants, but international students may need additional qualification and immigration evidence.
What Does a Clearing Offer Sound Like?
Clear Offer
We can offer you an unconditional place on BSc Psychology, course code C800, at our City Campus. The offer is available until 18:00 today. We will email the details, and you should add the course through UCAS Hub before the deadline.
This is clear.
It tells you:
Course
Code
Campus
Offer type
Deadline
Next step
Provisional Offer
We would like to offer you a place subject to receiving evidence of your GCSE English Language grade.
This is not yet completely unconditional.
Ask:
What evidence is accepted?
Where should it be sent?
What is the deadline?
Can you add the course before the evidence is checked?
Vague Positive Response
Your grades look promising, so I expect the department will be interested.
This may not be an offer.
Ask:
To confirm, are you currently offering me a place, or does the department still need to make a decision?
Alternative-Course Offer
The standard course is full, but we can offer the same subject with a foundation year.
Ask about:
Additional year
Tuition fees
Progression requirements
Accreditation
Accommodation
Student finance
What to Write Down During the Call
Record:
University
Course title
Course code
Campus code
Adviser’s name
Date and time
Grades discussed
Offer type
Conditions
Evidence required
Deadline
Accommodation information
Next action
Clearing Call Record Template
Question | Answer |
Who did I speak to? | |
What course was offered? | |
What is the course code? | |
Which campus? | |
Is it a foundation-year route? | |
Is the offer unconditional? | |
What evidence is needed? | |
When does the offer expire? | |
Is accommodation available? | |
Will the offer be emailed? | |
What must I do next? |
Repeat the important details before ending the call:
Just to confirm, the offer is for [course], code [code], at [campus], and I need to add it through UCAS by [deadline]. Is that correct?
What to Do After a Clearing Call
Save the Offer
Keep:
Email
Screenshot
Call notes
Adviser’s name
Deadline
Course code
Research the Course Again
Before accepting, check:
Modules
Assessment
Accreditation
Campus
Accommodation
Costs
Placement opportunities
Student support
Compare Other Offers
You can speak to several universities and receive multiple informal offers before adding one Clearing choice.
Do not add the first course immediately unless you are certain it is your preferred option.
Add the Choice Before the Deadline
Once you have chosen:
Sign in to UCAS Hub.
Go to Your choices.
Select Add Clearing choice.
Enter the course details.
Submit the choice.
Only add a course when the university has given you permission.
Wait for Formal Confirmation
The university then processes the choice.
Your place becomes official when UCAS Hub shows that the university has confirmed you.
How Long Should You Wait Before Accepting?
Ask the university for the real deadline.
You may have:
A few hours
Until the end of the day
Twenty-four hours
Several days
Use the available time to check:
Course
Accommodation
Campus
Finance
Other offers
On JCQ Results Day, students cannot add a Clearing choice until 13:00, giving them time during the morning to speak to universities and compare opportunities.
Do not create a fake five-minute deadline because the call felt exciting.
Equally, do not ignore a genuine deadline while conducting a three-hour investigation into the relative quality of every nearby coffee shop.
Can You Call a University That Rejected You Earlier?
Yes.
A university may reconsider you through Clearing:
For the same course
For a related course
With different achieved grades
At another campus
On a foundation-year route
UCAS specifically advises students that they can contact universities they applied to or declined earlier in the cycle.
A previous rejection does not guarantee that the decision will change.
However, current vacancies and achieved grades may create a different situation.
Can You Call Your Former Insurance University?
Yes.
Once your firm university confirms you, your insurance choice is no longer held.
When you now prefer the former insurance university:
Contact it.
Ask whether the course has a Clearing vacancy.
Ask whether it would offer you a place.
Secure the offer.
Check accommodation.
Decline your confirmed firm place only when certain.
Add the new course through Clearing.
Firm and insurance choices cannot simply be swapped after results.
Should You Call When Your Grades Are Below the Clearing Requirements?
You can ask.
Published requirements provide guidance, but the university makes the final admissions decision.
Be honest about your grades.
The university might:
Accept a near miss
Offer another course
Suggest a foundation year
Confirm that it cannot consider you
Do not spend all morning repeatedly calling a university that has clearly declined you when several realistic alternatives remain.
What If Nobody Answers?
Try:
Calling again later
Completing the online Clearing form
Requesting a callback
Using live chat
Emailing the official Clearing address
Contacting the department
Checking the university’s social channels for service updates
Do not leave repeated messages containing confidential information.
Keep researching other universities while waiting.
A course should not become your automatic favourite merely because you have listened to its hold music for forty minutes.
What If You Are Rejected During the Call?
Thank the adviser and ask:
Are any related courses available?
Is there a foundation-year route?
Does another campus have places?
Would you consider a joint honours course?
Are vacancies likely to reopen?
Then continue with your shortlist.
One university saying no does not end Clearing.
UCAS encourages students to remain patient, keep calm and consider a range of courses and alternative routes.
Common Clearing Call Mistakes
Calling Before Checking UCAS
You may already have a confirmed place or a pending decision.
Calling Without Your Grades
Have every result ready.
Giving Predicted Instead of Achieved Grades
Use your final results.
Not Knowing the Course
Research before calling.
Letting a Parent Make Every Call
Universities generally want to speak directly to the applicant.
Sounding Apologetic
You are using a normal admissions process.
Talking Too Quickly
Slow down when giving numbers and codes.
Assuming a Friendly Conversation Is an Offer
Ask directly whether the university is offering you a place.
Failing to Ask About the Deadline
Find out exactly how long the offer remains available.
Forgetting the Campus
Confirm where teaching takes place.
Forgetting About a Foundation Year
Check whether one is included.
Not Asking About Accreditation
This can matter for professional careers.
Forgetting Accommodation
Confirm that a realistic and affordable option exists.
Failing to Take Notes
Details become difficult to separate after several calls.
Adding the Course Without Permission
UCAS says only to add a Clearing choice once the university has authorised it.
Accepting the First Offer in Panic
Compare suitable options before adding one.
Clearing Call Preparation Checklist
Before the call
☐ Check that you are eligible for Clearing☐ Find your Personal ID☐ Find your Clearing number☐ Collect your Level 3 results☐ Collect relevant GCSE grades☐ Find the course title☐ Find the course code☐ Research the modules☐ Check the campus☐ Check accreditation☐ Prepare reasons for applying☐ Write down questions☐ Charge your phone☐ Find a quiet place
During the call
☐ Introduce yourself☐ Name the course☐ Give your Personal ID☐ Give your Clearing number☐ Give accurate grades☐ Explain your interest☐ Answer questions clearly☐ Ask whether you have an offer☐ Confirm any conditions☐ Confirm the course code☐ Confirm the campus☐ Ask about accommodation☐ Ask for the deadline☐ Ask for written confirmation☐ Record the adviser’s name
After the call
☐ Save your notes☐ Check the email☐ Research the course again☐ Compare other offers☐ Check accommodation☐ Check student finance☐ Add only your preferred choice☐ Meet the deadline☐ Wait for formal UCAS confirmation
Ready-to-Use Clearing Call Script
Hello, my name is [full name].I’m calling about Clearing places for [course title and course code].My UCAS Personal ID is [number], and my Clearing number is [number].I achieved [grade] in [subject], [grade] in [subject] and [grade] in [subject]. My GCSE English Language and mathematics grades are [grades].I’m particularly interested in the course because [specific module, placement, accreditation or career reason].Could you tell me whether you would consider my application?
When an Offer Is Made
Thank you. Could I confirm the exact course title, course code and campus?Is the offer unconditional, or do you need any further evidence?How long will the offer remain available?Will you send the details to me in writing?Is university accommodation still available?What do I need to do next?
Before Ending the Call
Just to check that I have recorded everything correctly, the offer is for [course], code [code], at [campus]. I need to add it through UCAS by [deadline], and you require [evidence, if any]. Is that correct?
Frequently Asked Questions About Calling Universities During Clearing
Do you have to call universities during Clearing?
You normally need to contact them before adding a course. Telephone is common, but some universities also use online forms, live chat or other methods.
When should I start calling?
Call once you know your achieved results, have checked your UCAS status and have found a suitable current vacancy.
What time can I check UCAS on A-Level Results Day 2026?
UCAS Hub opens to applicants from 08:00 on Thursday 13 August 2026.
What time can I add a Clearing choice?
Eligible JCQ Results Day applicants can add a choice from 13:00.
What information do I need?
Prepare your Personal ID, Clearing number, grades, relevant GCSEs, course details and reasons for wanting the course.
Where do I find my Clearing number?
It appears under your application status in UCAS Hub when you are eligible for Clearing.
What should I say first?
Introduce yourself, name the course, give your UCAS details and grades, then ask whether the university will consider you.
Is a Clearing call an interview?
Usually it is a straightforward two-way conversation, although some courses may require an interview, portfolio or additional assessment.
What questions will the university ask?
It may ask about your grades, subjects, GCSEs, interest in the course, experience and career plans.
Can my parent call for me?
Universities generally prefer to speak directly to the applicant. A parent can help research and take notes.
What if I cannot speak on the telephone?
Check whether the university offers an online form, live chat, email, text relay or another accessible method.
Should I call when my grades are below the advertised requirements?
You can ask. Give accurate results and let the university decide whether it can consider you.
Can I call more than one university?
Yes. You can contact as many universities as you wish and receive several informal offers.
Can I accept more than one Clearing offer?
You can receive several informal offers, but can add only one Clearing choice at a time.
Is a verbal offer guaranteed?
It is not yet your formal UCAS confirmation. You need to add the course and wait for the university to confirm it.
How do I know whether I have an offer?
Ask directly:
Are you formally offering me a place?
Confirm the course, conditions and deadline.
Should I ask for the offer in writing?
Yes. Ask for an email containing the course, code, campus, conditions and deadline.
How long will the offer last?
The university decides. Ask for the exact date and time. UCAS recommends confirming how long an informal offer remains available.
Do I add the course immediately?
Add it only after the university gives permission and when you have decided that it is the course you want.
Can UCAS add the choice for me?
No. The applicant adds the Clearing choice through UCAS Hub.
What happens after I add it?
The university processes the choice and formally confirms or declines it through UCAS.
Can I change my mind after adding a Clearing choice?
Contact the university immediately. You may need it to withdraw or decline the pending choice before you can add another.
Should I ask about accommodation during the call?
Yes. Ask whether rooms are available, guaranteed and affordable before committing to the course.
Can I call a university that rejected me earlier?
Yes. It may reconsider you for the same or a related course if it has vacancies.
Can I call my former insurance university?
Yes. Ask whether it can offer you a place through Clearing.
Can I call universities when my UCAS status is pending?
You can research alternatives, but contact the university already holding your offer before giving it up.
What if the university does not answer?
Try its online form, live chat, callback service or another official method, and continue contacting other suitable universities.
What if I am rejected?
Ask about related courses or foundation years, then continue with the other universities on your shortlist.
Should I tell the university that a grade is being reviewed?
Yes. Give your current official grade and explain that a review is pending. Ask whether the university can consider you now or wait for the outcome.
Do I need a personal statement?
An existing applicant’s UCAS application normally includes their statement or application answers. A new direct-to-Clearing applicant will usually need to complete all application sections unless the university has agreed otherwise.
Can international students make Clearing calls?
Yes. They should also prepare qualification, English-language, immigration and visa information.
Does calling first guarantee a place?
No. The university must assess your qualifications and decide whether it can offer you the course.
Final Thoughts on Calling Universities During Clearing
A successful Clearing call does not require a perfect speech.
It requires preparation, honesty and clear questions.
Follow this order:
Check that you are eligible.
Collect your full results.
Research the course.
Prepare your UCAS details.
Introduce yourself clearly.
Give accurate grades.
Explain why the course interests you.
Ask whether you have an offer.
Confirm the course, campus and deadline.
Ask about accommodation.
Get the details in writing.
Compare your options before adding one choice.
Admissions teams expect students to feel nervous.
They are not waiting to reject you because you paused, checked a note or asked them to repeat a course code.
The bigger risks are calling without researching the course, assuming a vague conversation was an offer or ending the call without knowing what you need to do next.
Keep the script in front of you, write everything down and remember that you are assessing the university too.
The goal is not merely to persuade somebody to offer you any available place.
It is to find a course you will be happy to accept once the call ends and the Results Day adrenaline begins to wear off.
Continue with Clearing Explained, How Clearing Works, Clearing Timeline, Results Day Checklist and Common Results Day Mistakes.
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