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Frequently asked questions about Clearing

Answers to the questions we are often asked about Clearing. What is it? When can I apply? How do I know if I've got my place? And many more.

Clearing 2024

Clearing helps applicants who have not secured a place at university or college, for whatever reason, to find places on university courses.

You can access Clearing between July and September, but for most people it is used immediately after A-level results are published.
 

OPENING HOURS BETWEEN FRIDAY 5 JULY 2024 – FRIDAY 6 SEPTEMBER 2024

  • Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 4:00pm
     

EXTENDED OPENING HOURS DURING A-LEVEL RESULTS

  • Thursday 15 August 2024, 8:00am – 8:00pm
  • Friday 16 August 2024, 8:00am – 6:00pm
  • Saturday 17 August 2024, 10:00am – 4:00pm

Common questions

  • What is Clearing?

    Clearing allows you to apply for a course later in the year than usual.

    Clearing courses are the same as our university degree courses. The only difference is that there are still vacancies. The course content, fees, facilities, and teaching staff are the same for those who applied earlier.

    It doesn’t matter if you’ve already applied through UCAS earlier this year, or not. You can apply for a clearing course from July onwards, and start studying in September.

    Clearing is most popular when A-level exam results are published in August. If we fill all our vacancies, we’ll close the course for this year.

    You can contact more than one university during Clearing, but you can only add one choice at a time on UCAS Track.

  • Who is Clearing for?

    There can be many reasons why you may apply to university through Clearing. You can check out some of the common Clearing scenarios in our guide to how Clearing works.

    On results day, you’ll see the Clearing option in UCAS Hub if you’re eligible to apply. If you don’t meet the conditions of your offer and are unsuccessful, the university you applied to will release you into Clearing. You can only apply if you’re not holding an offer with a university. If you’re holding an offer that you don’t want to accept, you can release yourself from your offer on UCAS Hub. We recommend ringing universities first to make clearing enquiries before you release yourself.

  • How many Clearing choices can I add?

    You can only apply for one Clearing course at a time. If you’re holding an offer, you’ll need to reject it in UCAS Hub before you can make a new application.

  • When does Clearing start and finish?

    We open for Clearing on Friday 5 July 2024. It lasts until mid-September, or until our courses are full.

  • What’s the number and opening hours of Manchester Met’s Clearing helpline?

    If your grades meet the entry requirements of the course you’re interested in, please call +44 (0)161 247 3000.

    Opening hours between Friday 5 July 2024 – Friday 6 September 2024

    • Monday – Friday, 9:00am – 4:00pm

    Extended opening hours during A-level results

    • Thursday 15 August 2024, 8:00am – 8:00pm
    • Friday 16 August 2024, 8:00am – 6:00pm
    • Saturday 17 August 2024, 10:00am – 4:00pm

  • What happens when I call the Clearing helpline?

    When you call, our friendly advisers will talk you through the process. We’re here to help and guide you, so don’t worry if you feel nervous.

    Please have the following information ready:

    • Which courses interest you.
    • Your UCAS Personal ID (PID).
    • Your academic level 2 and 3 qualification details, such as GCSEs, A-levels and BTECs.

    Clearing offers are always unconditional offers.  So, you must have all your results before you can get a Clearing offer. If your qualifications meet the course entry requirements, our advisers will offer you a place. 

    You may need to do an interview or submit a portfolio before we make you an offer. Our advisors will let you know if this applies to you.

    On results day, our helpline is always busy. Please be patient and continue to call until you get through. If you’re waiting for a call back, please wait to hear from us — we’ll always return your call.

  • I've received my results, but a decision hasn’t been made on UCAS Track. What should I do?

    If you’re awaiting a decision, check the status of your application on UCAS Hub. Or, you can contact the university you’ve applied to.

    If you’ve applied to us, visit our Confirmation pages. Or, please call our Confirmation helpline on +44 (0)161 247 2931.

  • Can I reject my insurance offer and apply through Clearing instead?

    If your firm choice is unsuccessful, you’ll transfer to your insurance choice if you meet the conditions. 

    However, if you don’t want your insurance choice, you can release yourself into Clearing, and apply for a new course.

    For more details, please log into UCAS Hub.

    View our courses

  • Can I defer my Clearing offer and start university next year?

    We can’t accept deferred applications in Clearing. If you apply for Clearing this year, you’ll begin studying in September 2024.

  • Can I apply for accommodation if I have a place through Clearing?

    Yes, you can apply for accommodation once you’ve accepted your place. We guarantee accommodation to eligible students who apply by 31 July. We recommend booking as soon as you can. Please see our guidance on how to apply.

  • I have a confirmed place. What should I do next?

    Congratulations! You may now need to apply for student finance, plan for the year ahead and start looking for accommodation.

  • I have received an offer for a place in Clearing. What should I do next?

    Congratulations! Our admissions team will contact you with instructions to add your Clearing course and qualifications on UCAS Hub. There may be a deadline. Once you’ve done this, we’ll confirm your place.

    We’ll invite you to a visit day in August. This is your opportunity to get a feel for your new course and Manchester Met.