Clearing on results day - what to expect

Moving into Higher Education can feel like a huge leap. My role is often to help make that transition a little less intimidating and a lot more manageable. I’m Rezarta, the Admissions Manager at Escape Studios. This means that if you call us up on A level results day to apply through UCAS Clearing, there’s a good chance I’ll be guiding you through the process! Here I’m sharing some of my top advice for applying through Clearing with us – so you can feel prepared for that big decision. 

About me  

I've worked in education for over 15 years, and for the last nine years I've been part of the Admissions Team at Escape Studios. One of the things I love most about my job is helping students take that first step into higher education. 

Over the years, I've met thousands of prospective students at UCAS fairs, school events and open days. It's always exciting meeting people at the very beginning of their journey, hearing about their ambitions and creative interests. What's even more rewarding is seeing some of those same students years later, graduating and moving into careers they once only dreamed about. 

How can I prepare to apply for Clearing places? 

If you're thinking about applying, especially through Clearing, it's completely normal to feel uncertain. 

You can prepare by having your Level 3 results as well as your GCSE English and Maths ready. Make sure your portfolio (if you are using one) is digital and accessible. This can be on Art Station or just as simple as a google drive.  

How to apply for a Clearing place on A level results day  

The first step is simply to get in touch. On A level results day this year (Thursday 13th August 2026), we are open from 8:00am - 6:00pm (BST).  

Give us a call and we'll talk through your situation, answer your questions and explain your options. Depending on the course you're interested in, we may ask to see a portfolio. But even if you're not ready to apply and just want to ask a few questions, that's absolutely fine too. As you can only apply for one course through Clearing at a time, it's worth doing some research beforehand to help you make the right choice. 

For students applying to our BSc or MSci courses who've studied a relevant qualification, there's no portfolio requirement, which can make the process even more straightforward. Some qualifications exempt you from submitting a portfolio, and if you’re not sure we can help you figure out if this applies to you. 

What if I don't want to speak on the phone?  

If you'd rather communicate by email, we can send you a step-by-step guide explaining everything you need to know. You can also get in touch with us via Live Chat if that's easier. Applying through Clearing is much simpler than many people think. Our Clearing form only takes a few minutes to complete, and in most cases, you'll receive a decision within 24 hours. 

What if  I'm not sure if my results/ qualifications are correct?   

My advice? Don't rule yourself out before you've even spoken to us. 

At Escape Studios, we're not just looking at grades on a page. We're interested in your creativity, your potential, your passion and your willingness to learn. We're looking for people who want to create amazing things and build a future in the creative industries. 

I speak to students every year who worry that their qualifications aren't quite right, that they haven't achieved the grades they hoped for, or that they're somehow not ready to apply. 

Some of the most talented students I've worked with almost didn't apply because they assumed they wouldn't be accepted.    

If you're reading this and wondering whether you should apply, my message is simple, don't let self-doubt make the decision for you. You don't need to have everything figured out. You don't need a perfect academic record. You just need to take that first step. Whether you're ready to apply, considering Clearing, or simply exploring your options, my team and I are here to help. 

Who knows? In a few years' time, I might be watching you cross the graduation stage and celebrating everything you've achieved. And that's one of the most rewarding parts of this job. 

Good luck and speak to you soon! 

Clearing remains open following results day, subject to course availability.