Clearing without UCAS application

[JustBeenSleeping]

I have tried to search for this answer online but can't find anything relevant. My daughter did not submit a UCAS application. Is it possible for her to access clearing for 2024 entry or will she have to go through the whole UCAS process for 2025 entry? Thanks

She needs to have a UCAs record to access clearing so yes, it will need to be next year.

You should be able to do a last minute application. Unless they changed it. You used to be able to apply to join clearing into the new term.

Tell her to try registering with UCAS now.

Yes, according to this it should still be possible.

www.whatuni.com/advice/ucas-application-guide/ucas-application-deadlines/54520/#:~:text=5%20July%202024%3A%20Clearing%20opens,entry%20for%202024%20through%20UCAS.

But don't hang around. The best clearing places will go fast.

I worked the clearing hotlines a couple of years (admittedly a while back). You would t believe some of the last minutes shenanigans.

Heh, I'm a decade out ofworking it. Given the current need for bums on seats, you're right, it may be workable, but a record will still be needed.

@murasaki Oh then you know. It's a weird scramble this year by the looks of things.

@JustBeenSleeping

That same website has this (www.whatuni.com/advice/clearing/how-to-use-clearing-to-apply-directly-to-a-university/104536/ ) on direct applications and submitting RPA forms, but that won't be available everywhere.

I work in admissions. In theory, it's not too late to apply through clearing but as has already been mentioned, many places will already be out of Clearing. Also, university accommodation may already be taken up. At this time of year, it might also be tricky getting a reference from school or college (not absolutely necessary, but some unis might want them).

Rather than rushing, I'd recommend taking time to look around, doing a great application, and applying for 2025 entry.

Yes, you can. https://www.ucas.com/node/5456

However, as above, unless she already knows a lot about the course(s) she is aiming for, she might want to apply next year and have more time to research her choices.

Applying with grades in hand and time to look round places will certainly take the stress off. And allow her to her work and save up. I'd do that, as said, the best clearing places will already have gone.

Yes. We did this for dd last year.

Contact the universities they are interested in and secure the place.
Create a ucas account, apply for this year and the university and ucas code.
It asks you to upload a personal statement, or tick the box that says not needed- we ticked the box.
Pay the fee.
Once accepted apply for student finance. Last year dds took a couple of weeks to come through.
Apply for accommodation.

Definitely doable.

Yes, she absolutely can (I work in admissions) Really annoying that others are giving misleading information - if you don't know, don't post anything! The process is exactly as @L1ttledrummergirl has laid out. Many universities will have clearing places available right until the start of term. But yes, if she wants to go to a highly ranked university, there are unlikely to be any vacancies at this point. You can use the UCAS website to see what is currently available. Happy to give further guidance if she decides to go for it.