Clearing confusion

Hi everyone,
I was wondering whether someone could clear up my confusion. I firmed my choice of uni a few months ago and now have changed my mind and want to go through clearing. Do you have to wait until results day to go through clearing, if you’ve accepted an offer? Or is there a way to decline my firm now and go through clearing?
Thanks!

Hi @ManakaJ,

You can “self-release” yourself into clearing anytime via the UCAS portal and do not have to wait till results day. HOWEVER, the best practice is:
1. Browse the clearing courses and see which one you are inclined to apply for. If you only want to change course but stay at the same university - then you should call the university and enquire about this.
2. Call the university that offers the new course via clearing and get an informal offer (this can also be done through email but it takes longer)
3. Now that you are safe with a backup – you should be sure that you want to decline your current offer, maybe speak to family, friends or teachers. This is because you will not be able to go back if you change your mind.
4. Self-release yourself in the UCAS portal and apply for the clearing course that you researched and received a confirmation for.

You might find these articles helpful:
https://www.whatuni.com/advice/clearing/clearing-faqs/102216/
https://www.whatuni.com/advice/clearing/self-release-into-clearing/79250/

Lastly, I just wanted to add that A LOT of people use clearing to change their courses/ universities – so you are not alone 😊

Hope everything goes well – good luck!

Shaheer (Lancaster Student Ambassador)