A-level results are here. The next step in your university career is about to start. It’s called “clearing” and it’s where universities release lists of all courses with available places. This year will be different, though UCAS is keen for as seamless and simple a process as possible.
This Unique Year
Leaving aside the ongoing frustration over how results were calculated yesterday and the worry, students are still able to apply for clearing roles. Universities are fully aware of the problem. Chancellors and high-profile figures took to social media in response to ease concerns about students having offers withdrawn. The same concerns now exist for clearing places requiring minimum grades.
Clearing is nothing to embarrassed about; it isn’t a virtual “grab whatever you can take”. You will find something you want to study without settling for something just because it’s on offer. 73,000 entered clearing last year and many went to Russell Group Universities. These courses are by no means “the dregs”.
New: Clearing Plus
This year’s clearing period runs between 6th July and 20th October. Most places will have been added to the site in the last few days.
Clearing Plus is new for 2020. The idea is to match eligible students with courses based on their interest and grades. You will receive recommendations. You do not have to take apply for of them, you can still find a course through the normal search.
Always Research a Course
It may feel like a mad rush, but it isn’t. Take your time; there will be many places available and suitable for you. Consider other options and make sure the course content is what you’re looking for too. Each university will offer different subjects based on their backgrounds and faculty research experience. Take your time and you increase the chance of taking the perfect course for you.
Open Days Go Virtual
Open Days have long been a tradition to look forward to. Students get a feel for the place, the course, the department, the faculty, and even halls of residence. That’s gone for this year. Coronavirus means all that takes place online. Use them to your advantage before applying for a course. You’re going to need all the information you can get and get as much of a feel as you can.
Rejected A Conditional Place?
When results were announced yesterday, students with conditional offers found themselves out of contention. Don’t panic because another major difference this year are the contingency exams. Ofqual have set up exams to take at the end of summer for students unhappy with their results.
Also, most universities have extended start dates (hence Clearing heading into mid-October) for students taking these exams or challenging aggregated results.