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Changed your mind? Decided on Uni later than everyone else? First things first– don't panic.
Thousands of students find their university place through UCAS Clearing every year, and for many, it leads them exactly where they're meant to be. In fact, some of the best university experiences start with a last-minute decision.
If you're navigating UCAS Clearing 2026, here's everything you need to know – including how to find student accommodation fast once you've secured your place.
What is UCAS Clearing?
UCAS Clearing is a way for universities and colleges to fill any remaining spaces on their courses.
You can use Clearing if you:
- Didn't receive any offers
- Didn't get the grades you needed
- Declined your offers
- Applied after 30 June
- Changed your mind about what or where you want to study
The good news? You're definitely not the only one. Every year, thousands of students use Clearing to find the right course and university.
UCAS Clearing 2026 Key Dates
📅 2 July 2026 – Clearing opens
📅 13 August 2026 – A Level Results Day
📅 24 September 2026(6pm) – Final deadline for 2026 undergraduate applications
📅 19 October 2026 – Last date to add a Clearing choice
How to Use Clearing Without the Stress
1. Keep an Open Mind
You might discover a university, city or course you hadn't considered before. Explore similar subjects and different locations – your perfect fit may surprise you.
2. Do Your Research
Before calling a university:
- Check the course details
- Review entry requirements
- Explore campus facilities
- Think about what matters most to you
3. Pick Up the Phone
Once you've found a course you're interested in, contact the university directly. They'll discuss your qualifications and whether they can offer you a place.
Top tip: Have your UCAS ID, grades and a few questions ready.
4. Secure Your Place
If the university offers you a place, they'll let you know how to add it through your UCAS application.
Once it's confirmed, congratulations – you're officially going to Uni! 🎓
Got Your Clearing Place? Now Sort Your Accommodation
One of the first questions students ask after getting into university through Clearing is:
"Where am I going to live?"
The good news is that you still have options.
If you're hoping to stay in university-managed accommodation, head straight to your university's accommodation pages and apply as soon as possible.
If you're looking for private student accommodation, Studentpad can help you find your new home quickly and safely.
With Studentpad, you can:
🏠 Search student accommodation near your university
🔔 Sign up for property alerts so you don't miss new listings
❤️ Save your favourite properties to compare later
🏢 Explore private halls, student houses and flats all in one place
🤝 Connect with trusted accommodation providers through university partnerships
Studentpad partners with over 100 universities and students' unions, helping students find accommodation they can trust.
Why Use Studentpad During Clearing?
When time is tight, having everything in one place makes a huge difference.
Whether you've just accepted your Clearing offer in London, Edinburgh, Canterbury or beyond, Studentpad helps you:
- Compare accommodation options quickly
- Find trusted student housing providers
- Stay updated with the latest availability
- Take the stress out of your accommodation search
Don't Leave It Until the Last Minute
The best accommodation can get snapped up quickly after Results Day, so once you've accepted your university place, it's worth getting your housing search underway.
Even if you're still weighing up a few options, creating alerts and shortlisting properties now can save you time later.
Ready to find your student home?
Start your search with Studentpad today and discover trusted student accommodation near your university.
Good luck to everyone going through UCAS Clearing 2026. You've got this. 💙
