Lee McMahon, Deputy Head of Applicant Support at University of Greenwich gives us his top tips for clearing: 
Before results day
- Do your research
Draw up a list of universities that offer the courses you are interested in, so you’re prepared on results day. Check opportunities to visit the universities you’re interested in before results day, as this will help you decide which one you want to go for when you get your Clearing offers. Most universities offer virtual events or physical tours around Clearing so keep an eye on their websites.
- Prepare for Clearing
Collect all the documents and information you’ll need on results day: your UCAS number, Clearing number, your UCAS points, and grades. Make a note of how you can contact and apply to the universities you are interested in, so you’re ready to go first thing on results day. Make sure you can access any phone lines, online chat services or application forms that may be in place.
On results day
- Get on the phone
Start calling the universities you’re interested in as early as you can. Think of the phone call as an interview. Plan what you’re going to say – why you want to study the course, your deep interest in a subject. These are all things that could get you a verbal offer which you can confirm later.
- Be flexible
If there aren’t any places on the course you want to do, you could consider a joint honours or similar course that does have spaces. It could lead to the same or similar careers.
- Decide on a course
If the university confirms that it will accept you, you can then add the choice in Track in the ‘Your Choices’ section. Don’t forget that you can speak to as many universities and colleges as you like in Clearing, but you can only add one Clearing choice at a time – the one you want to accept.
- Enter your Clearing choice on UCAS Track
The earliest you can submit your decision through Clearing is 1pm on results day, Thursday 17th August. This allows you to research the course and institutions properly before making any decision. Only enter a Clearing choice on UCAS Track if you have spoken to the university and have been offered a provisional place.
- Follow up with Student Finance
If you’re changing Universities during Clearing and are planning to use student finance, you’ll need to let them know about the change. Head to the Government’s student finance website, login and update your details once your place is confirmed at your new choice. You don’t need to do this on results day, but don’t leave it too long or it may delay your funding being released to you when you enrol.