Clearing gives students another opportunity to apply for university courses with available places.

Clearing may be an option for:

1. Students who didn't get the grades needed for their original choices.
2. Those who didn't apply earlier in the admissions cycle.
3. Students who have changed their mind about what or where they want to study.
4. Those who performed better than expected and want to explore different options.

If your child or dependant is considering applying through Clearing, they should start by researching the courses available and checking that they meet the relevant entry requirements.

Universities advertise their Clearing vacancies through UCAS and may also publish them on their own websites. When Clearing is open, we'll publish details of any opportunities available at Durham, along with information about how to apply.

When applying, it can help to have the following information ready:

• The course they're interested in studying
• Their qualifications and results, including any English language qualifications and secondary school qualifications such as GCSEs or equivalents
• Their UCAS ID number, if they have one
• Their contact details, including an email address they can access easily.

If we decide to make your child or dependant an offer through Clearing, we'll provide information about what they need to do next.

Whether your child or dependant is considering Clearing because their plans have changed, their results were different from what they expected, or they've decided to apply to university later in the cycle, your support can make a real difference.

Help with research 

Taking some time to explore the options together can help your child or dependant feel prepared.

• Browse UCAS course listings and university Clearing webpages.
• Create a shortlist of options, including entry requirements and useful contact details.
• Encourage them to keep an open mind and consider alternative courses that align with their interests and goals.

Provide practical support 

Clearing can be a fast-paced and emotional process, so having someone on hand for support can be invaluable.

• Be available while they research their options or submit enquiries and applications.
• Help keep track of important information, including course details, offers and next steps.
• Take notes if needed and offer reassurance throughout the process.

Think about accommodation 

Securing a place is only one part of the journey, so it is worth exploring accommodation options early. 

• Research university-managed accommodation and private housing options together.
• Check accommodation deadlines and availability at any universities they are considering.
• At Durham, we will make an offer of accommodation to all new undergraduate students who request it. 

Support their decision-making 

While you can offer guidance and advice, it's important that your child or dependant feels confident in making the final decision.

• Encourage them to ask questions and gather the information they need.
• Help them weigh up their options carefully.
• Remind them that Clearing is simply another route to university and can open up exciting opportunities.

Celebrate the outcome 

Whatever the result, your encouragement and support can have a lasting impact. Whether your child or dependant secures a place through Clearing or chooses a different path, recognising their achievements and helping them look ahead positively is one of the most valuable things you can do.

The UCAS Hub is an important part of the Clearing process. Applicants can use it to check the status of their application and, where appropriate, formally add a Clearing choice.

If your child or dependant receives an offer through Clearing, the university will provide instructions about what they need to do through UCAS to confirm their place.

For the latest information about using the UCAS Hub and the Clearing process, visit UCAS.

That's okay too. There are other options they may want to explore, such as appealing their results, resitting exams, taking a gap year or applying to university in a future admissions cycle.

Encourage them to consider their options carefully and choose the route that's right for them.

Once students accept an offer of a place to study at Durham via Clearing, the Colleges Membership and Accommodation Office will be in contact about confirming accommodation.

Find out more about our Colleges.