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A-Level Clearing Guide 2026
Clearing can help if plans change on results day, but it is easy to rush. This guide explains how Clearing works, what to say when you call universities, and when resits may be the better route.
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Direct answer
How does A-Level Clearing work?
Clearing helps eligible applicants find available university or college places. For A-Level results day 2026, UCAS says eligible applicants can add a Clearing choice from 13:00 on Thursday 13 August.
- Call the university first and only add the choice in UCAS when they tell you to.
- Compare the offer carefully: course, location, start date and costs.
- If the available course is not the right fit, resits may be the better route.
Choosing between Clearing and resits? Book a free consultation to discuss A-Level resit support and subject-specific preparation.
Clearing checklist
What to have ready before you call
UCAS ID
Keep your UCAS Personal ID and login details ready.
Your grades
Have grades, subjects and any relevant marks in front of you.
Course contacts
Save admissions numbers and course codes before results day.
Questions
Write down questions about entry requirements, start dates and next steps.
Call script
What to say on a Clearing call
Example: “Hello, my name is [name]. I’m calling about Clearing for [course name]. My UCAS ID is [ID]. I’ve achieved [grades] in [subjects]. Could you tell me whether the course has places available and whether my grades would be considered?”
1
Confirm the course
Check the exact course title, campus, start date and whether the vacancy is still available.
2
Ask about next steps
Ask whether they can make a verbal offer and when you should add the Clearing choice in UCAS.
3
Do not rush the wrong course
A fast offer only helps if the course, location and outcome still suit your plans.
Results day guides
Helpful A-Level results guides
Move between the main results guide, UCAS points, Clearing, missed grades and resit support.
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FAQ
A-Level Clearing 2026 FAQs
Clearing is the UCAS process that helps eligible applicants find available university or college places.
UCAS says eligible applicants can add a Clearing choice from 13:00 on A-Level results day.
Yes. Contact the university first and only add the choice when you have been told to do so.
Have your UCAS ID, Clearing number if shown, grades, course title, questions and notes ready.
Not automatically. Check course fit, location, costs, accommodation and whether you would genuinely be happy there.
Universities usually need to speak to the applicant. Parents can help prepare notes and questions.
Consider other courses, apprenticeships, a gap year, a review of marking or A-Level resits, depending on your goals.
Sources
Official sources used for this guide
This guide uses official UCAS guidance, with National Learning Group advice added to help students and parents plan their next step.
Need help deciding between Clearing and resits?
Book a free consultation to discuss A-Level resit support and subject-specific preparation.