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Clearing is a UCAS service which helps people to find university places. Last year 73,000 students found university places via Clearing, and this year there is also expected to be a lot of demand.

Applying for university is often a nerve-wracking experience, but this year there is added uncertainty due to COVID-19.

But according to experts, prospective university students could be at an advantage this year, as they are expected to have much more choice over their university applications.

Higher Education Policy Institute’s Rachel Hewitt told the Guardian: “It’s a buyer’s market, due to a demographic dip in the number of 18-year-olds and the pandemic.

“This year’s students will have more options available to them than ever before.”

UCAS Track updates at 8am on results day, and you will be able to find out whether you have been accepted by your firm or insurance choice universities.

But if you are not accepted for either of your chosen places, you will be able to apply for courses through Clearing.

Using the UCAS Clearing search tool, you are able to look for the courses universities have on offer.

Once you have found a course you like, you need to call the university, who may give you an informal offer.

When does Clearing close?

Clearing opened on July 6, 2020, and anyone who already had their exam results has been able to apply through Clearing from this date.

But for people who are awaiting A-level results day on Thursday, August 13, you will be able to use Clearing after you have found out your A-level results.

Clearing closes on October 20, 2020, but it is important to bear in mind once courses are full places will no longer be available via Clearing.

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So if you know there is a course you want to apply for, it is better to apply sooner rather than later.

Once you have found a course and have spoken to the university to confirm an offer, you will only be able to add your Clearing place in UCAS Track from 3pm on August 13.

It is then the university’s responsibility to confirm your place, and if this doesn’t happen you will be able to apply for another course.

Bear in mind you will only be able to apply for one Clearing course at a time.

What is Adjustment?

If you have done better in your exams than you expected, you may wish to consider a university course with higher entry requirements.

Through UCAS’ Adjustment service, you can apply for other courses which may be available from results day.

You can search for courses through Adjustment while keeping hold of your firm university choice offer.

Adjustment is available from August 13 until August 31, 2020.

You can call the UCAS helpline on 0800 100 900 every day between 8am and 10pm from Wednesday, August 12 until Friday, August 28 if you need advice.

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