Clearing top tips

Your guide to navigating Clearing with confidence

Get prepared for Clearing with our top tips, designed to help you navigate the process and find the right course for you. 

Clearing 2026

Sign up to receive Clearing updates from Surrey

Get ahead of Results Day by signing up for Clearing priority updates. We’ll send you the latest course vacancies ahead of Results Day, so you can see what’s available and start planning your next steps with confidence.

Between now and Results Day, you’ll also receive expert tips and advice on Clearing, guidance on finance and accommodation, key deadline reminders, and invitations to exclusive events, so when Results Day arrives, you’ll feel informed, prepared and ready to make your next move.

Your personal information will only be used for sending you Clearing updates. Your data will be processed in accordance with Data Protection Legislation and the University of Surrey's Pre-Enrolled Student Privacy Policy.

What is Clearing, and how does it work?

Clearing is your opportunity to find the right university place if your plans have changed.

You can apply through Clearing if you:

  • Didn’t receive any offers 
  • Didn’t meet the conditions of your offers 
  • Changed your mind about your firm choice 
  • Are applying after 30 June 

You’ll be able to explore available courses and speak directly to universities to secure your place.

Our Clearing students share their experience

One of the best ways to prepare for Clearing is to hear from students who’ve experienced it first-hand. 

Watch our video to hear Surrey students share their journeys, what to expect and their top tips to help you feel confident every step of the way. 

Clearing students have their say | University of Surrey

Our top tips and advice for Clearing success

1. Start researching early

Give yourself a head start by exploring courses and universities before Results Day.
Create a shortlist, check entry requirements and think about what matters most to you - from course content to campus life.

This is one of the most useful Clearing tips to stay ahead of the process.

2. Plan your accommodation options

It’s a good idea to explore accommodation options early. Universities may offer a range of accommodation support, so it’s worth checking directly with each institution to understand what options are available at the time of application.

Many universities also offer Clearing support, so it’s worth checking what help is available.

3. Be ready to call

You will need to call universities to discuss your options. Be prepared to talk about your results and why you are interested in the course.  Being prepared will help you feel more confident when calling universities during Clearing.

Before you call, have this to hand:

  • Your UCAS ID 
  • Your results 
  • The course you’re interested in 

4. Secure your place

When you receive an offer, you’ll need to add it as your Clearing choice in UCAS Hub.

Remember, Clearing can feel overwhelming, but there is plenty of support available to help you make the right decision.

Clearing success stories: hear from our students

The University of Surrey was really helpful throughout the Clearing process; the call handlers were really welcoming and friendly and answered all of my questions. Samuel, Economics and Finance BSc (Hons) - Clearing student
Samuel Tang
I would advise prospective students to trust the process and the Clearing team at Surrey. Feel proud of yourself for following your instincts and be confident that everything will work out for the best. Bess, Applied and Contemporary Theatre BA (Hons) - Clearing student
Bess still
I was ecstatic when Surrey offered me a place through Clearing! I felt like a mountain of pressure was lifted off my shoulders. Austin, Computer Science BSc (Hons) - Clearing student
Austin Bwanika

How to prepare for results day

Our students share their top tips for Clearing and how to get results day ready.

Student sat on steps laughing together

My journey through Clearing blog

Students recall their experiences on results day, planning for university, student life and what it’s like to study here at Surrey.