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Is Clearing bad? 10 Clearing myths

No. Clearing is a normal route into university. In 2025, 77,110 students got their place through it, about one in seven of the students accepted through UCAS’s main routes. Here are the myths that put people off.

Checked against official sources on 25 September 2026.

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Myth 1: Clearing is only for people who failed.

No. It is also for late applicants, students with no offers and students who release themselves. In 2026, 47,370 students had used Decline my place by 10 September, many because their results were better than expected.

Myth 2: Only low-ranked universities have Clearing places.

Universities of all kinds use Clearing, including some highly selective universities in some subjects. Vacancies change by the hour on results day. Check the course on official data, not the university’s reputation alone.

Myth 3: Clearing courses are worse courses.

They are the same courses, with the same teaching and the same degree, as for students who applied in January.

Myth 4: Employers will know I got in through Clearing.

Your degree certificate and transcript show your degree, not how you were admitted.

Myth 5: International students cannot use Clearing.

They can. UCAS says international students can use Clearing in the same way UK students can. They just need time for a CAS and a visa.

Myth 6: You can add lots of Clearing choices at once.

You can add only one at a time. If it is not confirmed, you can add another.

Myth 7: You must accept an offer on the phone.

A phone offer is informal. You accept by adding it as your Clearing choice, so you can ask for time to think.

Myth 8: Your parents can do the calls.

UCAS says universities need to speak to you directly. Parents can help with research and notes.

Myth 9: You cannot get accommodation through Clearing.

Many universities offer accommodation to Clearing students, though choice may be narrower. Ask before you accept and apply quickly.

Myth 10: Adjustment will let me trade up.

Adjustment was withdrawn from 2022 entry. The route now is Decline my place, which gives up your current place.

Sources

• UCAS: What is Clearing?
• UCAS: end of cycle data resources 2025
• UCAS: daily Clearing analysis 2026
• UCAS: Clearing guide for international students
• UCAS: top tips for contacting universities in Clearing
• UCAS: Adjustment (withdrawn from 2022 entry)