Can you go through Clearing if you have an offer?

Having a change of heart about your chosen university or course is more common than you might think. Last year, over 20% of students who used UCAS Clearing changed their minds about what or where to study.

Once you’ve applied to university and selected your firm and insurance choices, it can seem like your path is set. But as time goes on, you might have second thoughts about your university or subject options.

If you’ve changed your mind, Clearing is a great way to change your choices.

Change your university

If it’s the university you wish to change, consider what a different destination will offer you. What do you want from your university experience?

Find out what student life is like, research clubs, societies, and sports to see what they offer. Think carefully about the location – would a campus-based or city university suit you best? If you’re commuting, how will you get there? If you’re living at the university, what accommodation is available?

Change your course

If it is a new course you are considering, check that it still has places and that you meet the entry requirements. Remember that entry requirements might not change during Clearing. You can check this on UCAS or the university website.

Seek advice from family or friends, and ask yourself the same questions you did when you applied for the first time.

Look into the modules carefully as these can vary between universities.

There are many types of courses so think about whether you would want to study a joint honours degree, where you study more than one subject, or pick a course with the option for a year abroad. It’s helpful to choose a subject you enjoy and will help you reach your long-term goals.

Consider your career opportunities - is there a specific profession that you want to enter? Does it require a particular degree with professional accreditation?

Next steps

Once you’ve thought about where and what to study, and you’re confident the course has spaces and that you meet the entry requirements, you can enter UCAS Clearing.

You will need to decline any existing offers on UCAS Hub, although we recommend waiting until you have another offer first.

If you want to change course at your firm-choice university only, you don’t need to decline offers. Ring their Clearing helpline and ask to change course. If you get an offer, the admissions team will change it for you. 

Universities can only make unconditional offers in Clearing so you need all your results to apply for a course.

Changing your course or university of choice might seem daunting but being as prepared as possible will help. Do your research beforehand, know your options, find out the university’s Clearing number, and be sure to call as soon as you have your results.   

Good luck!