Clearing guide for parents and guardians

Why should my young person use Clearing?

• They haven’t met the conditions of their firm or insurance offers. The most important thing to remember is to reassure them that this isn’t a setback – Clearing is designed to open new opportunities.
• They have changed their mind about where or what they want to study or achieved better grades than expected and want to trade-up. A lot of students use Clearing to change their choices and secure a place elsewhere.
• If your young person has accepted an unconditional offer as their firm choice, their place at university is secure.
• If they accepted a conditional offer and met the course entry requirements, that’s worth celebrating as they’re officially heading to university.

We have a dedicated Clearing hotline and live chat available on results day to make the process as smooth as possible. If your young person has any worries or concerns, please encourage them to get in touch with the team.

How can I support my young person during Clearing?

During Clearing, one of the most valuable things you can do is be present and help them stay calm. While it might feel overwhelming to them, Clearing isn’t as daunting as it seems, and your reassurance can make a real difference.

Top tips to support someone through Clearing

• Be prepared – get ahead on results day. Make sure you understand how Clearing works and how you can help your young person to get organised.
• Discuss alternative options – it’s good to have a backup plan ready, just in case things don’t turn out as planned.
• Be positive and supportive – they don’t need to rush to make any decisions. The most important outcome is that they find a path that’s right for them. Whatever their results may be, make results day a positive experience. This is the beginning of an exciting new chapter in their life.
• Keep communication open – ask how they feel and reassure them that many students find their best-fit course through Clearing.
• Boost their confidence – encourage your young person to lead the conversation with the universities they speak to. It helps universities get a true sense of their passion and goals.
• Take notes – have a pen, paper, and internet connection ready to take notes and complete online actions quickly.

Our Clearing support team are approachable and here to help. Reassure your young person to ask questions and get in touch if they are unsure about any part of the process.

Our Student Life team are on hand and offer wellbeing, financial, and academic support from day one. If your young person needs support, please encourage them to get in touch with the team.
More about our student support

Checklist for parents and guardians

• Research our available Clearing courses.
• Help your young person to prepare UCAS and academic details in advance.
• Note down key Clearing dates. See our timeline.
• Support your young person emotionally and practically through the Clearing process.
• Once they have confirmed a place, make sure you explore accommodation, finance, and wellbeing support options with them.
• Celebrate with them – they’ve put in a lot of hard work, and no matter the outcome, their effort deserves to be recognised.