Didn't Like Your A-Level Results? Here's The UCAS Clearing 2025 Deadline To Help You Out

A-level grades that fall short of expectations do not necessarily end a student's chances of starting university. Each year, thousands secure degree places through UCAS Clearing, which matches unfilled university spaces with applicants still seeking a course.

The process is also used by students changing their choice of course or institution, or by those applying for the first time after the main deadline. In 2025, Clearing will run throughout summer and autumn, offering a second route into higher education.

What Clearing Is and Who It Serves

UCAS Clearing matches unfilled university places with students who meet certain conditions. It is available to those who have not met the grades for their firm or insurance choice, have not received any offers, have applied after 30 June, or have declined their original firm place through UCAS Hub.

In 2025, Clearing opens on 5 July, with course vacancies listed in the UCAS search tool from that date. However, places can only be formally added to an application from A-level results day, which falls on 14 August. The process closes on 20 October.

How to Prepare

University advisers recommend researching potential courses in advance, being ready for results day, and keeping an open mind about options. UCAS's 'My matches' and Clearing Plus tools use application details, qualifications and results to suggest suitable courses already in Clearing.

Once results are confirmed, places can fill quickly, so early contact with admissions teams is advised. UCAS recommends having a Personal ID and Clearing number ready to speed up the process, according to Prospects.

Availability and Deadlines in 2025

In recent years, tens of thousands of students have found places during Clearing, with courses ranging from high-demand subjects such as business and computer science to more specialist degrees. Availability can change quickly, with some courses filling within hours of results being published.

Clearing opens on 5 July, when universities begin publishing details of courses with available spaces. On 14 August, from 13:00 UK time, eligible applicants will be able to add a Clearing choice to their application via UCAS Hub. The deadline for doing so is 20 October.

Students who secure a place through Clearing remain eligible for the same student finance arrangements as those entering via the main application process, provided they apply within the relevant deadlines.

Additional Points to Consider

Clearing is accessible to a wide range of applicants, including mature students, those returning from gap years, first-time applicants, and international students. UCAS confirms that international applicants can use Clearing just like UK students, though visa processes and timing (such as CAS issuance and processing) may introduce additional deadlines for overseas students, according to The Times.

UCAS recommends monitoring its official listings regularly, as course availability can change from day to day. It also warns against unofficial websites or agencies that charge for Clearing support, as legitimate listings are free to access through UCAS.

Many university advisers emphasise that Clearing is not a sign of failure, but rather an opportunity to explore different universities and courses. Success, they say, depends on thoughtful preparation and an open-minded approach.