Plymouth University's top tips for Clearing success
Your A level results have arrived and they’re not what you had expected, so what do you do now? The first and most important tip - don’t panic. Iola Nelson, Plymouth University Undergraduate Student Recruitment Manager, advises school and college leavers at this time every year. Here, she shares the answers to the most commonly asked questions.
Q. What is Clearing?
A. Clearing is the time of year when universities around the country try to match students to remaining vacancies on courses. It’s aimed at individuals who perhaps did not apply to university the first time around, or who received offers from places but did not actually meet the criteria, or increasingly may have only just missed out on the required points. This year, the interest in Clearing is expected to be very high, and competition fierce for remaining vacancies.
Q. What if I don’t get the results I expected?
A. The main thing is not to worry. If you don’t get on to the courses you applied for, you will be sent further information from UCAS (the Universities & Colleges Admissions Service) detailing next steps. Start thinking about what other courses you might like to do and contact the universities to see if they have any vacancies, and to check that you meet the necessary entry requirements.
Q. How do I find out about vacancies?
A. Course vacancies will be published in the national media. You can also look on university websites (Plymouth University’s is www.plymouth.ac.uk/clearing) and the UCAS website (www.ucas.ac.uk).
Q. Where can I find out how to contact the universities?
A. Most universities with vacancies will have a telephone helpline in operation from the day results come out – the number will be on the university’s website, but you can also look for the number in newspapers, or in information held by your school or college. Plymouth University is running a dedicated Confirmation and Clearing call centre staffed by staff and students and can be contacted on +44(0)1752 58 58 58 from 8am on the morning of A level results (Thursday 15 August).
Q. What happens when I telephone the universities?
A. You will talk to a central operator and will be asked about your results, including what GCSE results you have, and a bit about your background. They will also take your personal details, such as date of birth, UCAS ID and address, and talk to you about the course, to help ensure it’s the right one for you.
If you choose to make an application, you must do so online, in a similar way that you made your original application to UCAS. You must use UCAS TRACK, so make sure you have all your details to hand to log in. As competition is fierce, don’t leave it too late to make an application through UCAS TRACK, as the course may fill and not accept further applications.
Q. There are no places left on the courses I want - I’m never going to get anywhere!
A. Sit down with your teachers, tutors and/or family and friends, and think about what other things you could do – think about studying a different subject, taking a gap year or perhaps consider re-sitting your exams. You may wish to consider an alternative course or foundation degree. Plymouth University has its own college network that provides further and higher education to the South West region.
Q. Should I take the first offer that I receive?
A. Only if it’s what you really want – bear in mind that you will spend three or four years studying that subject and living at that university. It can be tempting to rush out and grab the first vacancy, but you might regret it later on. It would also be foolish to take up an offer if you think it automatically allows you to transfer to another course once you’ve started.
Q. How do I decide if I want a place on the course I’ve been offered?
A. Don’t be rushed into making a hasty decision. Many universities run open days through Clearing, with Plymouth University’s being on Sunday 18 August. They also offer virtual tours online or provide information on location, support services and facilities. Ask yourself whether you will enjoy the course and whether it will help you in your chosen career (if you know what that is). Also ensure that the location and university itself is a place you would want to spend three or four years.
Q. What about finding somewhere to live?
A. We understand how important it is to live and study with like-minded students in a secure and welcoming environment. Therefore we will guarantee University-managed accommodation (including halls of residence) to all applicants who choose Plymouth University as their first choice institution. For more information, visit www.plymouth.ac.uk/accommodation
Q. Will I be treated differently if I come through Clearing?
A. No. Many first years gain places through Clearing and, as with other students, will go on to successfully complete their chosen course. As far as lecturers are concerned you are just one of the students - others will not know that you have come through Clearing.
Remember…
- Don’t panic!
- Spend some time thinking about what you’re going to do – don’t rush into something you’re unsure about
- Try to visit the university you are considering, if you haven’t already seen it
- Stay calm and listen carefully to advice
For more advice, contact Iola Nelson, Undergraduate Student Recruitment Manager at Plymouth University, on: Telephone: 01752 585858. Email: iola.nelson@plymouth.ac.uk. Website www.plymouth.ac.uk/clearing.
