Clearing is an important opportunity for prospective students who have not secured a university place or are seeking to change their course or institution. Here, you’ll find essential information about the Clearing process, eligibility, preparation tips, and more. We are committed to supporting you every step of the way as you navigate through Clearing and secure your place at our college.
Clearing FAQ’s
Frequently Asked Questions About Clearing
When is Clearing?
Clearing starts on Thursday, 2 July 2026 and we accept students until the start of the September intake.
If you already have your grades – from previous qualifications or earlier A-levels – you can start using Clearing before the official Results Day. Although the busiest period for Clearing is immediately following Results Day, we continue to offer available spaces until the beginning of the academic term.
What is Clearing?
Clearing is a process used by UK universities and colleges to fill any remaining places in their courses. It matches applicants to available university places who may not hold any offers or who have applied late. This option is available to those who have made a UCAS Undergraduate application but do not currently hold any offers.
If you’ve made a UCAS Undergraduate application but do not currently hold any offers, Clearing can help you find a place. It’s a flexible route for those who haven’t applied yet, didn’t achieve expected grades, exceeded grade expectations, or decided to change their course or university.
Am I eligible for Clearing?
You are eligible to apply through Clearing if any of the following situations apply to you:
- Your exam results were lower than expected, and you haven’t been accepted by your chosen institutions.
- You didn’t meet the conditions of your received offers.
- You didn’t receive any offers.
- You want to apply to an institution though haven’t done so yet.
- You rejected an offer because you changed your mind about the course or location.
How long will it take?
If you already have your results when you contact us, our Admissions team will quickly assess your application and provide you with an answer. Please note that interviews are required for our Clearing courses.
What happens next?
After you accept our offer, we will verify your details and qualifications. Once all checks are completed, we will confirm your place in the course. Following confirmation, we will send you detailed information about your attendance at the College.
What should I do to prepare?
To make the most of Clearing, research your options before Results Day. Get a good night’s sleep beforehand and be ready to act quickly. Ensure you have access to your UCAS hub, know how and when you’ll receive your exam results, and have your UCAS Personal ID and GCSE grades handy.
What is Self-Release and how do I use it?
Self-release through UCAS allows you to decline your current university place and enter Clearing to apply for different courses. To self-release, log into your UCAS account, click ‘decline my place,’ and follow the instructions. Ensure you are certain about this decision as your original place will not be held open.
Should I release myself to take up my insurance choice?
No, self-releasing on UCAS will place you into Clearing and not transfer you to your insurance choice. If McTimoney College is your insurance choice, and your firm choice has accepted you, contact us directly. We can check availability and potentially make you an offer via Clearing.
Can I swap my firm choice for my insurance choice?
Unfortunately, swapping directly is not possible. You will need to go through Clearing. If you wish to join McTimoney College, your insurance choice, please contact us to explore available options.
I want to change my course at the College. Do I need to go through Clearing?
No, simply contact us if you wish to swap courses. We will check your eligibility for the alternative programme and facilitate the change if possible.
What are your Clearing entry requirements?
Entry requirements for our Clearing courses are detailed on their respective webpages. Once you have reviewed our entry requirements, please contact us to discuss you individual situation.
Will I have an opportunity to visit the College?
Yes, we have several Open Day events scheduled throughout Clearing. You can find dates on our Open Days page.
Is Clearing available to international students?
Yes, international students can join us through Clearing. If you receive your qualifications before the UK A-level Results Day, you can contact us from 5 July 2024. Should you need a visa, we will issue a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) to ensure you can join us in September 2024.
Does the College accept the International Baccalaureate (IB), AP, and other international qualifications?
Yes, McTimoney College accepts a wide range of international qualifications. For specific entry requirements, please contact our Admissions Team directly or fill out our contact form.
Who can I speak to?
Our Admissions Team is ready to assist with any questions. You can complete the form on the Clearing contact page or reach us directly at:
- Email: admissions@mctimoney-college.ac.uk
- Phone: 01235 468569
