If you’re using clearing to find an alternative course, you may be getting a bit stressed. That’s completely understandable! There are loads of ways that you can overcome the stress, keep a clear head, and secure the right course for you. Here’s how.
If you don’t quite meet the grades you need to get into your chosen uni, it can feel like the end of the world as you know it. Fortunately, there’s UCAS Clearing: a blessing for thousands of students every single year.It’s not a ‘last-chance saloon’ as some might say. Think of it as taking a different route to get to the same – or, at least, a similar – destination. Since when is the road to success straightforward, anyway?!One thing’s for sure, though: it is a stressful time. It can be manic, uncertain, and tinged with lingering disappointment. But, you can turn it into a positive, with our top tips for Clearing. When results day rolls around, you need to be prepared. Here’s what you need to do.
If you don’t get the grades, you’ll have to call various universities to enquire about Clearing places. To ensure you get the course you want, have all of your details to hand. Here’s what you’ll need:
If you have to call Clearing, think of the call as an interview. Compose yourself and make sure you have everything you need. It’s nerve-wracking, but it has to be done – it’s actually a great bit of experience, too. The staff on the other end of the line are trained to put you at ease and to make you feel comfortable. If you get flustered, or if you start to feel uncomfortable in any way, just take a deep breath.Before the call, it’s a good idea to list your strengths. That way, you’ll express them much more easily and you’ll probably surprise yourself! Confidence comes from reassuring yourself.
You need somewhere quiet, relaxed, and with good internet access. Your college will likely be busy, so if you can make the call from home, that may well be easier. The main thing is that you feel comfortable and that you can hear yourself think. This is no time for mishearing details!One more thing: if you’re using a landline, make sure that you give your mobile number so that you can answer a call right away if the university needs to ring you back.
You’ll have an idea of the courses you want to study, but it’s a good idea to cast your net a bit further. Most universities will have limited spaces available, so think about similar courses in the same field. Read up about them, because you may be surprised at what courses you actually find interesting.
Double-check, triple-check, then check again for good measure. Most universities will confirm your offer by email, so keep a close eye on your inbox!
Easier said than done, we know. You do need to keep a level head, though. Don’t rush your decision; weigh up all the pros and cons: it might feel like you’re not in the ‘driving seat’, so to speak, but with a calm head and a strong awareness of your strengths, you’ll be able to put your case across like a pro.
The next step is to sort out your living situation. For this, we have you covered: with two city-centre locations across the UK (Salford and Dundee), and a whole range of benefits at both residences, you’re sure to find a home to be proud of. To find out more, get in touch by filling out the contact form at the bottom of the page.
Please complete all sections below