Find out more about the UCAS Adjustment and Clearing process so you’re fully prepared for all stages of your university application.
What is the Adjustment process?
The adjustment process is simply an option available to all students who have done better than expected in regards to their exam results. The process presents students with the opportunity to apply for a university which they prefer more, than compared to the ones they had initially applied for. Furthermore the adjustment process also allows an individual to swap their place on a course for another course of their choice. However the available places on particular courses at more competitive universities may be rather limited. Therefore it is always advisable that before applying to the course, contact the university to make sure that there are available places left.
When is the Adjustment process available?
Adjustment is available in a set period in August – check the UCAS website for the exact dates. It is completely up to an individual as to whether they want to apply elsewhere and take advantage of the options UCAS have offered. Do not feel pressurized to register for the option, if you are content with your firm university choice then that is absolutely fine. As outlined on UCAS website, the option of ‘adjustment’ will automatically appear in ‘Track’ if you are eligible for it.
Who is eligible for Adjustment?
As mentioned before, if you achieve better grades than anticipated in relation to your course entry requirements then you are automatically eligible. For example, if your conditional offer for your course requires you to attain ‘BBB’ in your 3 A-level subjects, nonetheless you exceed the requirement by achieving ‘ABB’, that means you are eligible for adjustment.
Finally if you are uncertain and need advice in terms of registering for adjustment, it is always helpful to go speak to your teacher, careers advisor or anyone you feel will provide you with the right guidance.
What is the Clearing process?
Clearing as UCAS states is how universities and colleges fill any places they still have on their courses. The option of clearing allows individuals to find another course if they applied after 30th June, if they did not receive any offers, if they did not meet the conditions of their offer and did not receive the exam results they were anticipating for. Clearing provides individuals with other options to consider in regards to their course and university choices.
When is Clearing available?
Clearing is available from July to September each year. Additionally if you have received your exam results but have not received any offers, you have the option of using Clearing from July. Principally, once your exam results have been published on your Track, you will automatically be informed whether ‘you are in clearing’ or ‘clearing has started’. If for some reason the option does not appear on your track and is taking quite some time, it is advisable to contact the universities personally. They will inform you about your application status once you have provided them with your UCAS Personal ID.
Who is eligible for Clearing?
The two main factors which make you eligible for Clearing are: you should have applied in the current application year and you have not withdrawn your UCAS application. There are also other criteria outlined on UCAS website which may also apply to you. Therefore be sure to check it and make a decision once you are well informed about all the options available to you. Also if you decide to opt for the Clearing option, UCAS will provide you with a ‘Clearing Number’. It is very important to keep this number at hand, as you will have to provide it to the universities, when talking to them. Applicants are free to talk to as many universities as they want in relation to the courses they are offering for Clearing. Nevertheless you can only make one Clearing choice at a time through your UCAS Track.
Lastly, as stated in the Adjustment section, it is advisable to talk to your school, college or careers advisor if you are feeling confused and need more information about the process as a whole. It is always important to remember that there are many opportunities and alternative routes available if you do not receive the desired exam results. Do not be discouraged and try to remain calm.
