How UCAS Extra, Clearing, and Adjustment Work for International Applicants

For international students applying to UK universities, the admissions process can feel unfamiliar and time-sensitive. UCAS offers several pathways beyond the initial application cycle that allow students to secure a place at university even if their plans change or their original choices do not work out. These include UCAS Extra, Clearing, and, until recently, Adjustment. Each route has specific eligibility criteria, timelines, and strategic considerations that are especially important for students applying from outside the UK.

UCAS Extra: An Additional Opportunity Before Clearing

UCAS Extra is a service that allows applicants to apply for additional courses if they are not holding any offers. It is available from late February until early July and is intended for students who have used all five choices on their initial application but have not received or accepted any offers.

Eligibility and Access

Students can use UCAS Extra if:

  • They have received decisions from all five choices and are not holding any offers.
  • They have declined all offers received.
  • They initially submitted fewer than five choices and have not yet used all available options.

To access Extra, students must log into their UCAS Hub account and check whether the “Add Extra Choice” option is available. If it is, they can begin searching for courses with vacancies.

How to Apply Through Extra

Applicants can only apply to one course at a time through Extra. This means they need to research carefully before submitting a new choice. It is advisable to contact the university directly to confirm that the course is accepting applications through Extra and to discuss suitability. Once a new choice is added, the university has up to 21 days to respond. If the application is unsuccessful or the student does not receive a response, they can replace the choice with another.

Students who receive an offer through Extra must respond within the deadline provided. If they accept the offer, they will not be able to apply to any other courses unless they later choose to withdraw.

Clearing: A Flexible Route to UK Universities

Clearing is a well-established route for students who do not hold any offers, apply late, or wish to change their course or institution. It opens in early July and runs until mid-October. For international students, Clearing can be particularly useful due to differences in academic calendars and qualification release dates.

Who Can Use Clearing

International applicants may be eligible for Clearing if:

  • They apply after 30 June, which is the final date for submitting choices through the main UCAS cycle.
  • They are not holding any offers, either because they were unsuccessful or declined previous offers.
  • They did not meet the conditions of a conditional offer.
  • They received their results earlier than UK students and wish to apply before A-level results day.
  • They met the conditions of their firm choice but now prefer a different course or university.

Preparing for Clearing

Students should begin researching courses and universities well before Clearing opens. Many institutions publish lists of available courses in advance, and UCAS provides a search tool that updates in real time. It is important to have academic transcripts, English language test results, and passport information ready. Students should also be aware of visa processing times, which vary by country and can affect their ability to start the course on time.

The Clearing Process

  1. Research available courses using UCAS and university websites. Focus on courses that align with academic interests and career goals.
  2. Contact universities directly to discuss eligibility and express interest. Many institutions offer informal assessments over the phone or via email.
  3. Receive an informal offer if the university is willing to consider the application.
  4. Add the Clearing choice to UCAS Hub once permission is granted. This formalizes the application.
  5. Wait for confirmation from the university. Most Clearing offers are unconditional, but students should check the details carefully.
  6. Begin preparations for visa application, accommodation, and travel once the offer is confirmed.

UCAS also offers a service called Clearing Plus, which matches students to courses based on their profile. This can simplify the search process, especially for those unsure where to begin.

Adjustment: No Longer Available

Adjustment was previously available for students who exceeded the conditions of their firm offer and wished to explore alternative options. UCAS has now retired this service. Students who find themselves in this situation are encouraged to use the “Decline My Place” feature and apply through Clearing if they wish to change their course or institution.

Strategic Considerations for International Students

International applicants should approach these pathways with careful planning. It is important to:

  • Understand the implications of switching courses or institutions, including visa requirements and accommodation availability.
  • Communicate clearly with universities and respond promptly to offers.
  • Seek support from advisers or nominated contacts who can help navigate the process.

Students should also be aware that some universities may have earlier deadlines for issuing Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letters, which are required for visa applications. Delays in securing a place can affect travel plans and enrolment.

Final Thoughts

UCAS Extra and Clearing provide valuable opportunities for international students to secure a place at a UK university, even if their initial application does not go as planned. By understanding the timelines, eligibility criteria, and practical steps involved, students can make confident decisions and prepare effectively for the next stage of their academic journey.

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