Clearing

Clearing isn't just for people who haven't quite got the grades they needed, but also those who have only just thought about going to uni and want to start now instead of waiting for a year. I went through clearing myself to get into uni in this way, and actually got into my first choice uni and on to the course I originally wanted to do.

When going through clearing there are a few things you should know..

Be quick!

The clearing process shows you the places on courses that are still available after everyone has received their offers, and these places will disappear very fast, so get in quickly and start ringing round for the courses you really want.

Stay positive

Even though you may not have got on to your perfect course, you have a lot of options open to you. You could do the same course at a different uni, do a different course at the same uni, or just go for a different option altogether! Just remember that all the universities want to fill their places, they're just looking for the right people!

Know the facts

Before ringing up to apply to a uni through clearing, look at their website and course details and make sure you're happy with them. There's no point in acepting a place on a course that you won't enjoy! Also be sure of what they are asking from you through clearing, and know whether or not they accept 2 AS levels instead of one A level.

If you have the required qualifications but they still haven't offered you a place, ask them for the reason and also email the admissions tutor directly (you will be able to find this on the university's website). I had a problem with this and emailing the admissions tutor directly got me on the course I wanted, and if they can't offer you a place on your chosen course they're in a much better place to offer any suitable alternatives.