Clearing 2026: Your Questions Answered
Are you thinking about applying to Falmouth through Clearing? It's easier than many students think and a common way for applicants to find the course that's right for them.
However, it can still feel daunting, particularly if you have unexpectedly found yourself in Clearing after receiving your results.
Whether you've missed out on your firm choice, changed your mind about what you'd like to study or applied late, it pays to be prepared. A little research beforehand can help make the process smoother and much less stressful.
This guide explains how to prepare for university Clearing in 2026, including key dates you should know, how the process works and what information you'll need when calling our Clearing hotline.
What details do I need when calling Clearing?
If you have already applied through UCAS, you will need your 10-digit UCAS Personal ID and, if you have it, your UCAS Clearing Number (available under ‘Application status’ on your application). You should also have your grades and points to hand, as well as the contact details of the teacher who wrote your academic reference. It can also be helpful to keep a copy of your personal statement to hand, as well as a pen and paper nearby for notes.
What happens when I call Clearing?
You'll speak to a Clearing adviser who will discuss your application and explain the next steps. Depending on the course, you may also be asked to submit a portfolio or speak with an academic. The call is also an opportunity to ask questions about the course, accommodation, student support and university life before making your decision.
What questions should I ask during Clearing?
It is important to make sure you are as well-informed as possible before deciding on a course and/or university through Clearing. Be sure to ask about available accommodation, course content, how you’ll be assessed, teaching, facilities, student support services or any preparation required before starting your course.
How long does the Clearing process take?
The process varies depending on the course and application. If you're offered a place, we’ll explain any deadlines for accepting your offer and completing your application before it is released. Some applications can be processed very quickly, while others may take a little longer if additional information, a portfolio review or an academic conversation is required.
Clearing Advice Sessions | Webinars
Hear from our current students who applied to Falmouth through late admissions (Clearing), for their first-hand experiences of the process.
Wed 08 Jul 2026
A session on Late Admissions (Clearing). 12:30 - 13:30
Application Support for Undergraduate Students
Online
Join our Course Advisors to discover how studying an online undergraduate degree can fit with your p...
Thu 06 Aug 2026
A session on late admissions (Clearing). 16:00 - 17:00
Twilight Tea | In Conversation with our Undergraduate Students
Online
Grab a cup of tea and join our online students for an informal chat about their experiences of study...
Fri 14 Aug 2026
A session on Late Admissions (Clearing). 12:30 - 13:30
Application Support for Undergraduate Students
Online
Join our Course Advisors to discover how studying an online undergraduate degree can fit with your p...
Tue 25 Aug 2026
A session on late admissions (Clearing). 11:00 - 12:00
Coffee Morning | In Conversation with our Undergraduate Students
Online
Grab your coffee and join our online students for an informal chat about their experiences of studyi...
Can I apply to more than one university through Clearing?
There is no limit to the number of universities you can speak to during Clearing, and you may receive multiple verbal offers for different courses. However, you can only officially apply for – and accept – one offer on the UCAS Hub.
When should I apply for student finance?
As early as possible. You don't need a confirmed university place to apply, and you can update your application later if your course or university changes. Applying early gives your student finance provider more time to process your application and can help avoid delays to your funding at the start of term.
What time does Clearing open on Results Day?
The Clearing hotline will open at 8am on 13 August 2026 (A-Level Results Day), which is around the time application statuses will be updated on the UCAS Hub. You will be able to add Clearing choices to the Hub from 1pm.
What should I prepare before Results Day?
Research a few different courses you might be interested in studying, make a shortlist of your favourite options and note down the Clearing hotline number. Familiarising yourself with your personal statement can also help. Make sure you have a fully charged phone to hand, and a quiet space where you can speak to a Clearing adviser.
Should I prepare a portfolio before Results Day?
If you're interested in a course that requires a portfolio, it's a good idea to prepare it in advance. Some Clearing applicants may be asked to submit a digital portfolio. Having your work organised ahead of Results Day can help speed up the application process and reduce stress, particularly if you're applying for a creative subject with specific portfolio requirements.
Is it normal to feel stressed about Clearing?
Absolutely. Results Day and Clearing can feel daunting, but our friendly advisers are on hand to help you through the process. Many students successfully secure a place through Clearing each year, whether they've changed their plans, exceeded expectations or missed the grades they were hoping for. You're not alone in feeling nervous.
What should I do if I’m nervous about calling?
Preparing in advance can help build confidence. Make notes, review your personal statement and think about the questions you might want to ask before you call. Remember that Clearing advisers speak to students in the same position every year and are there to help you understand your options and next steps.
Can someone call Clearing for me?
While we recommend calling the Clearing hotline yourself wherever possible, a parent or guardian can call on your behalf. However, due to data protection, you must be present to give the university permission to speak with them about your application.
Do you still have university accommodation available?
We guarantee accommodation for Clearing applicants in University owned, managed or approved accommodation. This is allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Click below to find out more about how to apply as a Clearing applicant.
How can I connect with students before I move to Falmouth?
Once you’ve applied and been accepted, you can join other applicants on Discord. This is a great way to connect with other future Falmouth students before moving to university!
You can also search Instagram or Discord to find student-created accommodation groups and meet other people on your course or staying in the same halls. (These groups aren’t managed by the University.)
Is there support available for new students?
We take student support very seriously. Whether you’re looking for academic, mental health or personal support, our Student Support team are always here to help. Head to our Student Support hub to see all the types of support that are available to our students.
We also have a dedicated team of Student Mentors who will be assigned to you when you join the University. They are your go-to for getting settled in at university and making sure you know where to go and who to turn to when you need help.
Connect with Student Mentors on Discord
When does Freshers Week start?
You can find all the information about what’s happening on the Students’ Union website.
However, if you join after Welcome Week, there will still be lots of opportunities to meet other students and explore the area, so don’t worry about missing out.
More Clearing advice
My advice for applying to Falmouth through Clearing
05 July 2023
Get Clearing advice from a current student.
A Student’s Guide to Clearing
Follow our Clearing guide to find out how you can apply for undergraduate courses if you don't alrea...
Clearing Advice for Parents, Guardians and Carers
What is Clearing? How can your child apply? And how can you support them through the process? Find o...
My experience of applying for an online degree through Clearing
15 June 2026
Ella, a Visual Communication BA(Hons) (Online) student, shares her experience of applying through Cl...
So, You've Got Into Uni Through Clearing? What Now?
16 August 2024
I only decided that I wanted to go to university a month before move in day, so here are my top tips...