Clearing is the UCAS process that matches students to university courses that still have places. It can feel stressful, but it is one of the best routes into university, and thousands of students find great courses through it every year. With a bit of preparation you can move quickly and end up somewhere you love. This guide explains how UK Clearing works in 2026, the key dates to watch, and how to secure your student accommodation fast once you have your place.
What is Clearing and when is it open in 2026?
Clearing is run by UCAS and matches applicants to university courses that still have spaces available. It is for anyone who did not get the grades they expected, applied after the main deadline, declined their original offers, or changed their mind about where to study. Clearing 2026 is already open, having opened on 2 July 2026, so you can search for available courses now, and it runs until 19 October 2026. The busiest day is A-level results day, Thursday 13 August 2026, when results are released from 8am and most places are confirmed. You can add your Clearing choice in the UCAS Hub from 1pm on results day. It is completely normal to go through Clearing, and plenty of students end up at a university they love because of it, so there is no need to panic if you find yourself using it.
How does Clearing work, step by step?
The process is more straightforward than it looks. Follow these steps on and around results day.
- Check UCAS from 8am on 13 August 2026 to see whether you are in Clearing.
- Search for available courses on the UCAS website and make a shortlist.
- Call the universities directly, with your grades and Clearing number ready to discuss.
- Add your Clearing choice in the UCAS Hub from 1pm once a university offers you a place.
Once your place is confirmed, your attention should turn straight to accommodation, because the best rooms go quickly.
Why accommodation matters in Clearing
Securing your course is only half the job. Because Clearing happens just weeks before term starts, student accommodation during Clearing fills up fast, and the students who sort their housing first get the best rooms in the best locations. Leaving it late can mean a long commute or settling for somewhere that does not suit you. Many students focus only on the course and leave housing until the last minute, then find the best options are gone. Treating accommodation as part of the same task takes the pressure off and helps you avoid a stressful, last-minute student accommodation search.
Securing student accommodation across the UK
The good news is that you do not have to settle during Clearing. Purpose-built, all-inclusive student accommodation is often still available, with bills and superfast Wi-Fi covered, great locations and facilities ready to move into. Study Inn, named the UK’s best student accommodation operator at the RESI Awards 2026, offers luxury student accommodation UK wide, in major university cities including Leeds, Nottingham, Exeter, Leicester, Loughborough and Bristol, with new properties coming soon in Birmingham and York. Wherever your Clearing place turns out to be, there is a good chance you can find quality living close to campus. Everything is all-inclusive and ready from day one, with a friendly on-site team, which makes a last-minute move far less stressful. You can check availability and secure a studio quickly, without a long application process.
Top student cities for Clearing
If you are weighing up your options, these are three of the strongest student cities to consider.
Leeds
Affordable and lively, with three universities and a huge student community.
Nottingham
Two major universities and a compact, sociable centre that is easy to get around.
Bristol
A creative harbour city with two major universities and a thriving student scene.
Tips for a smooth Clearing
A little preparation makes Clearing far easier. Have your grades, UCAS ID and Clearing number ready before you call, research your shortlist of courses in advance, and keep a phone charged and to hand on results day. Try to stay calm, take notes during calls, and once your place is confirmed, sort your accommodation straight away. Being organised means you can enjoy the moment rather than panic through it.
Clearing does not have to be stressful. Get your results, secure your place, then lock in your accommodation early with Study Inn and start the year settled.
FAQs
Can I still get student accommodation through Clearing?
Yes. Plenty of purpose-built, all-inclusive accommodation stays available during Clearing, but the best rooms go quickly, so book as soon as you have confirmed your place.
When is Clearing 2026?
Clearing is already open, having opened on 2 July 2026, and it runs until 19 October 2026. The busiest day is A-level results day, Thursday 13 August 2026, and you can add a Clearing choice from 1pm that day.
How quickly should I book accommodation after Clearing?
As soon as your place is confirmed. Term starts just weeks later, so booking early gives you the best choice of location and room type.
Where can I find student accommodation during Clearing?
Study Inn offers all-inclusive student accommodation across major UK university cities, with studios ready to move into throughout the Clearing period.
Do I have to accept a Clearing offer immediately?
Universities often give you a short window to decide, so you can weigh up your options, but popular courses and the best accommodation move quickly. It is worth deciding promptly once you find the right fit.
