A step-by-step guide to Clearing

Whether your results didn’t go as planned, or you’ve simply had a change of heart about where or what you want to study, Clearing can be a golden opportunity – and not a last resort, as some may assume.

Here, we walk you through the process step by step, explain exactly what Clearing is, and share university and college Clearing tips to empower you to make confident, stress-free decisions.

If you’re considering a future in the creative industries, we have a range of exciting courses to explore at Escape Studios.

What is university and college Clearing?

Clearing is the UCAS process that helps students find available university and college places after they’ve received their results. Running from early Autumn, it’s designed for:

• Students who didn’t meet the conditions of their offers
• Those who didn’t receive any offers (or declined them)
• Anyone applying for the first time after 30 June
• Students who want to change their course, university, or college.

If any of these apply to you, don't panic. Clearing is your chance to secure a place on a course that’s right for you.

Step-by-step university and college Clearing tips

1. Check your eligibility

Log in to your UCAS Hub account. If you’re eligible for Clearing, it will say so on your homepage and provide you with a Clearing number.

2. Start researching courses

Begin browsing available courses on the UCAS Clearing search tool or directly on university and college websites. If you’re interested in industry-led, creative degrees, head to the Escape Studios Clearing hub.

Take note of the entry requirements, course structure, and any standout features, such as industry connections.

3. Get in touch

Once you’ve found a course that interests you, call the university or colleges’ Clearing hotline or fill in an enquiry form. At Escape Studios, our Admissions Team are happy to talk through your options and offer Clearing tips and advice tailored to your goals.

4. Get an offer

If the university or college is happy with your grades and application, they may make you a verbal offer over the phone. Take notes and confirm what was said. Most providers (including Escape Studios) will follow up by email too.

5. Add your Clearing choice

Once you’ve received an offer you’re happy with, you’ll need to add it as your official Clearing choice on UCAS within two working days. You can only add one choice, so be sure you’ve made the right decision.

How to navigate the process smoothly

Going through Clearing can feel overwhelming, but there are things you can do to stay on track:

Adopt a positive outlook. Talk to people who went through Clearing, and many will tell you they can’t imagine it any other way now! What once seemed like a hurdle can eventually turn out to be the best outcome.

Act quickly, but don’t rush. Places fill up fast, but it’s worth taking a breath to make the right choice.

Keep your options open. Don’t just focus on the same subject or location – be really honest with yourself and consider what’s truly right for you now.

Ask questions. Find out about course content, graduate outcomes, student life, and what support is available.

Be prepared. Have your UCAS ID, Clearing number, grades, and portfolio (if needed) before calling colleges or universities – you don’t want to be flustered on the phone.

Check out our Clearing FAQs for more top tips.

Why choose Escape Studios through Clearing?

At Escape Studios, we don’t see a grade – we see YOU. Our portfolio-based admissions system means our tutors take the time to consider your creative work, your potential, and what subject you might be best suited to.

Our courses in Animation, Games, VFX, and Concept Art are developed with top studios like Atomhawk, Cinesite, DNEG, and Climax Studios, to name a few. Taught by industry professionals, we support more than a degree – we prepare you for a career.

We offer:

• Degrees designed with industry
• A campus in London’s Design District, designed to mirror a real industry studio experience
• Small class sizes and expert, practical teaching
• Outstanding Escapee (alumni) success stories
• Dedicated support to guide you through the process.

Begin your creative Escape

Let’s recap: what is university and college Clearing again? It might not have been your original plan, but it’s a process that can lead to brilliant new beginnings.

Whether you're still deciding what to do next or ready to dive into a creative degree, Escape Studios is here to help you make it happen.

Ready to apply? Explore your options and speak with our friendly team.