The Independent
·Aug 2026
Ucas Clearing 2026: How it works and what to do if you don’t get the A-level grades you wanted
Students who miss their A-level offer grades, receive no offers, or change their university plans can use Ucas Clearing to find available courses between 2 July and 19 October. The process involves checking vacancies, contacting universities directly with exam and application details, and adding an accepted offer through the Ucas application. Students are also advised to consider appeals, apprenticeships, gap years and employment, while preparing course shortlists, entry requirements and their Ucas ID in advance.