From clearing to Royal Holloway: Paula Vivas’ journey

My name is Paula Vivas. I’m a second-year joint honours BA history and politics and international relations student at Royal Holloway, University of London. As a student ambassador at Royal Holloway, I meet many prospective students who are eagerly awaiting their A-level results but are often terrified about not getting into university. I always remind them that there’s often another chance – through clearing. It’s great to be able to write about my experience with clearing because it means a lot to me.  

Prior to receiving my A-level results, I had no idea what I wanted to study at university. Studying for my A levels was already stressful, and I could barely even think about writing a personal statement, let alone applying for the university that I would be living at for the next three years.  

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I decided to hold off on making my decision until after I had completed my A levels, but at this point I wasn’t sure if I wanted to take a gap year or apply through clearing. I had heard so many stories about universities only releasing spaces for the courses that “nobody wanted to study” through clearing, so I thought if I couldn’t find a course I liked, I would wait another year to apply.  

The moment I looked at the clearing catalogue I was stunned. There were huge numbers of spaces on a variety of courses at so many universities.  

The moment I received my A-level results I decided to call Royal Holloway and I couldn’t have been more surprised by how easy the process was. All I had to do was call the university and tell them what course I wanted to do, what my grades were, and I was given a place immediately.  

The person on the other end of the phone was very welcoming and helpful, and they told me everything I needed to know about my next steps. I was then able to book a campus and accommodation tour of Royal Holloway for the next day and, like so many other students, I was blown away when I saw the historic Founder’s Building on the Egham campus. I knew I’d made the right decision. 

What is Ucas clearing? 
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Clearing 2023: UK universities with courses still available 

There are some common clearing myths you should banish if you are thinking about applying through clearing. 

• “The only courses left are the ones nobody wants to study” 

Like I said, this is simply not true! Many universities even save some places on popular courses specifically for clearing. There are so many useful resources online with lists of available clearing courses and their grade requirements. You’ll be shocked by how many there are!  

• “Only people who failed their A levels apply through clearing” 

There are so many reasons to apply through clearing. Maybe, like me, you weren’t ready to apply in January. Maybe – in the months since you initially applied – you’ve changed your mind about where or what you’d like to study. Or perhaps clearing is your plan B. You shouldn’t feel embarrassed to go through clearing! No matter how you get into university, you should be proud of yourself because you’ve worked incredibly hard to get there and have earned your place just like everyone else.   

• “There are no more open days after clearing and I won’t get to visit the university before I start” 

While it is different for every university, Royal Holloway provides campus tours for students who would like to join after clearing – and so do many other universities. That way, if you haven't already seen the campus you’ll have the chance to do so before you start. 

You can ask about visiting the campus or opportunities to look around when you are offered your place. The admissions office at each university will provide you with all the details. 

My advice to anyone considering going through clearing: 

• Do your research before results day – research different universities and courses thoroughly. Try not to think too narrowly about subject choices. Look into specific modules too, because these are what you will be studying during your degree.   

• Be prepared. Remember many other students are currently going through the same thing. Have your results and personal details, including your Ucas number, to hand when you call universities. 

• Finally, don’t panic and be patient! Phone lines can be busy, but you will get through. Be proud of yourself for completing your exams and explore your options.