If you're going through UCAS Clearing, don't panic. Every year, thousands of students secure a university place through clearing and go on to have an incredible student experience. Whether you didn't get the grades you expected or have changed your mind about your course, clearing gives you another opportunity to find the right university for you.
If you're planning to study in Leeds, it's also worth thinking about your accommodation early. Student accommodation can fill up quickly after results day, so having a plan in place can make your move to university much less stressful.
Thousands of students find their place at university through clearing every year so there's nothing to worry about.
Key Takeaways
UCAS Clearing runs from 2 July to 19 October, with most places becoming available on A-level results day (13 August 2026).
Clearing is available for students who didn't receive offers, missed their grades, exceeded expectations or applied after the main UCAS deadline.
Universities have dedicated clearing helplines available on results day to help students find available courses.
Once your university place is confirmed, it's a good idea to secure your student accommodation as soon as possible.
If you're studying in Leeds, Enclave: Student offers modern studio apartments and en suites in the heart of the city.
UCAS Clearing is open from 2 July to 19 October.
Students can be eligible for clearing for a number of reasons.
What is UCAS clearing?
UCAS Clearing is the process that helps students find university courses with places still available.
It's designed to match universities with students who are still looking for a place, making it an important part of the university application process each year.
Despite what some people think, clearing isn't just for students who missed their grades. Many students use it because they've changed their mind about where they want to study, found a course that's a better fit or decided to apply later in the year.
Who can apply through clearing?
You may be eligible for clearing if you:
Didn't meet the grades needed for your original university offers.
Achieved better grades than expected and want to change your course or university.
Didn't receive any offers.
Applied after the main UCAS application deadline.
Changed your mind about what or where you want to study.
Whatever your reason, you're not alone. Thousands of students find their university place through clearing every year.
How does UCAS clearing work?
If you're eligible for Clearing, the process is straightforward.
1. Check your UCAS hub
On results day, log into your UCAS account to check the status of your application. If you're eligible, you'll receive a clearing number, which you'll need when speaking to universities.
2. Contact your original university
Before making any decisions, it's worth getting in touch with your original university choice.
Depending on your grades, they may still be able to offer you a place or suggest an alternative course.
3. Search for available courses
If you decide to explore other options, search UCAS for universities with available places on courses that interest you.
Take your time to compare courses, locations and entry requirements before making any decisions.
4. Call universities
Most universities operate dedicated clearing hotlines throughout Results Day.
When you call, make sure you have:
Your UCAS ID
Your Clearing number
Your exam results
Details of the course you're interested in
Admissions teams will usually ask about your grades and why you'd like to study the course before letting you know whether they can offer you a place.
5. Accept your offer
If you're offered a place and decide it's the right choice, you can add the university as your Clearing choice through UCAS.
Once the university confirms your place, you're officially in.
UCAS clearing is a straightforward process.
When should you arrange student accommodation?
As soon as your university place is confirmed.
Many students begin searching for accommodation immediately after results day, so popular options can book up quickly.
If you're moving to Leeds, planning your accommodation early means you'll have more choice and can settle into university life with less stress.
Why choose Enclave: Student?
Located in Briggate, in the heart of Leeds city centre, Enclave: Student offers modern student accommodation within walking distance of several universities, including:
University of Leeds (18 minute walk)
Leeds Beckett University (15 minute walk)
Leeds Trinity University (2 minute walk)
Whether you're looking for your own private space or want the classic uni experience of living with other students, there's an option to suit your preferences. Find out more about our apartment types here.
Choose from:
Private studio apartments
En-suite rooms with shared kitchens for 4–8 students
En suite room at Enclave: Student
Comfy Studio apartment at Enclave: Student.
More than just a place to live
University is about much more than lectures, and your accommodation should be too.
At Enclave: Student, residents have access to a wide range of amenities designed for studying, socialising and relaxing, including:
Rooftop terrace and first floor terrace
Dedicated study spaces
Games room
Private screening room
Gym
Private dining room
It's a place where you can focus on your studies, meet new people and make the most of your university experience.
Enjoy movie nights in the screening room.
Take in views of Leeds city centre from the rooftop terrace.
Support for international students
Moving to a new country can feel overwhelming, which is why Enclave: Student offers complimentary airport pick-up from Leeds Bradford Airport for international students.
It's one less thing to worry about, helping you settle into your new home from the moment you arrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is UCAS Clearing only for students who missed their grades?
No. UCAS clearing is available for a range of students, including those who exceeded their predicted grades, applied late, didn't receive any offers or simply changed their mind about where they want to study.
When does UCAS Clearing open?
UCAS clearing opens on 2 July and closes on 19 October, although the majority of university places become available on A-level results day.
Can I still get student accommodation through Clearing?
Yes. It's best to book as soon as your university place is confirmed, as availability becomes more limited after results day.
What types of accommodation are available at Enclave: Student?
Enclave: Student offers private studio apartments and en suite rooms with shared kitchens, giving students the flexibility to choose the living style that suits them best.
Is Enclave: Student close to Leeds universities?
Yes. Enclave: Student is centrally located within walking distance of the University of Leeds, Leeds Beckett University and Leeds Trinity University.
Make the most of our Central Leeds location at Enclave: Student.
Ready for your next chapter?
Going through clearing might not have been part of your original plan, but it could lead you to the university that's the perfect fit.
And if that journey brings you to Leeds, we'd love to welcome you to Enclave: Student.
Book a tour today to explore our student accommodation, discover our amenities and see what life at The Store House is really like.
