UCAS Clearing for international students

Key dates for 2026 entry

Universities set their own earlier cut offs, so confirm the course deadline on the call.

How to work Clearing in five steps

1. 1

   Build a shortlist you would actually accept

   Five to eight courses, with the exact course title and phone number written down. Include one or two safe options.

2. 2

   Have your evidence to hand

   UCAS Personal ID and Clearing number, grades and awarding body, English language evidence and its score.

3. 3

   Call in order of preference

   Speak for yourself, name a module or accreditation when asked why the course, and take notes on every call.

4. 4

   Confirm in writing, then add the choice

   Get the verbal offer emailed to you. Only add the Clearing choice in UCAS once the university gives permission.

5. 5

   Start the visa chain the same day

   Deposit, CAS, financial evidence, biometrics. Ask about late enrolment and deferral on the very first call.

Clearing guides (4)

clearing · ucas

UCAS Clearing Dates and Deadlines for 2026 Entry

Clearing runs from early July to mid October. Here are the dates that matter for 2026 entry, and the deadlines behind them that international applicants should plan around.

clearing · student visa

Student Visa Timing After a Clearing Offer

A Clearing offer in August still leaves a full visa process to run. Here is the realistic sequence, the timings, and what to do if it will not fit.

clearing · ucas

UCAS Clearing for International Students: How It Works

Clearing is open to international applicants, not just UK students. Here is what actually happens, what universities ask for on the phone, and the visa timing you need to plan around.

clearing · ucas

Clearing Tips: What to Say When You Call a University

The Clearing call is a short interview. Here is what to prepare, what to say, and the questions that tell you whether the place is really right.

Clearing questions