Our Ultimate Guide to Clearing
A-level results day can feel like a real emotional rollercoaster. One minute you’re feeling relieved that the wait is over, and the next you’re panic-refreshing university websites while wondering what “clearing” actually means.
First things first, pause, take a breath. Be reassured to know that clearing is incredibly common, and loads of students end up finding courses, cities, and accommodation that they absolutely love through this process.
If Liverpool is now on your radar, you’re in luck. It’s one of the UK’s best student cities, packed with nightlife, culture, music, and student-friendly living. And, to arm you with all the right info about the process, here’s our ultimate guide to navigating all things clearing and finding the right student accommodation for you in Liverpool.
What does Clearing actually mean?
In simple terms, clearing is how universities fill up any remaining spaces on their courses after all the exam results have been released. Students use the clearing process for loads of different reasons, including if:
- They didn’t get the grades they were expecting
- They changed their mind about where they want to study
- They applied late
- They got better grades and want different options
And honestly? It’s not a backup plan anymore. Plenty of students find amazing universities and opportunities through clearing. The key thing is not to panic. Unis are well-prepped for clearing every year, and there are plenty of lovely people ready to help guide you through the process.
How will I know if I’m in Clearing?
If you’re in Clearing, it will say 'You are in Clearing' or 'Clearing has started’ on your UCAS application status.
How do I apply for Clearing?
First things first - have a think about the course you want to do, consider different subjects - you don't have to stick with your original idea. Also consider what location best suits you. Secondly head to the UCAS website and use their search tool to find courses – it's the only official vacancy list, so it’s the most up-to-date. Before you add your Clearing choice, you need to speak to the university and give them your Clearing number and Personal ID. Ask if they'll accept you, get informal offers over the phone from a variety of universities – then decide which one you want to accept.
What if I can’t find a course I want to do on Clearing?
If you can’t find the course you want - keep checking! Universities will update their courses regularly if there are places later on.
How could clearing change your accommodation timeline?
Securing your student accommodation is usually something you tend to sort out months in advance of starting your new course. But, for the reasons mentioned above, clearing can really flip that timeline upside down!!
So, when you go through clearing, you might be changing university at short notice, moving to a completely different city than you thought you were and making decisions within days instead of months.
Sometimes, this means that your student accommodation options and availability can feel a bit more limited….but this 100% doesn’t mean you’re stuck with bad options. It just means you need to be a bit quicker and more flexible in your decision making.
Your goal for now - finding good, available, and reliable student accommodation options in Liverpool that tick off your main boxes.
What matters most when choosing your accommodation quickly?
When time is of the essence and you don't have the luxury of hours of browsing, it’s easy to feel like you have to panic-book the first place you see. But even during clearing, you need to think about what’s really important to you, as the last thing you want to do is just settle for anything and then be worried and disappointed when you arrive in Liverpool.
Ask yourself these questions….
- Will I feel safe there and is it well-managed?
- Will I feel comfy and at home?
- Is it in a good location for my university and exploring the city?
- Does it include essentials like Wi-Fi and bills or will I need to sort these separately?
- Will I be living with other students, or is it likely that I will feel lonely and homesick?
Will there still be student accommodation left after clearing?
Yes! One of the biggest worries students have during clearing is availability, and although yes, it can be more limited than peak booking season, the reality is that you will still find a place to live.
Student accommodation providers like us expect clearing every year! We are ready to receive enquiries from students specifically in your situation.
So while you might feel like you’re late to the party, you’re actually arriving at a time when there are still solid choices on the table…you just need to act a bit more decisively than you might usually do.
How can true student Liverpool help you if you go through clearing?
Clearing might change your plans, but it certainly doesn’t have to make things harder than they need to be. With the right approach, you can still find student accommodation that feels safe, comfortable, and genuinely exciting to move into.
If you’re looking for modern student living in Liverpool, take a look at true student Liverpool and see what’s available now.