Clearing advice

JBench2003

Hi, so I got only one offer for architecture with AAB predicted. I am likely to get this grade, if not better, on results day on the 18th. Was just wondering if anyone could help explain how clearing works exactly, and thing I can do to prepare for it? Because the only offer I got was for a deferred entry, and I was hoping to go this year. I do have a few unis I’m looking at and was wondering how the clearing process works and if I go to clearing does that reject my current offer? Thanks
Joe

Reply 1

user488949439

Original post by JBench2003

The first issue is you would need a university to be entered into clearing and that might not happen. If they are in clearing you would ring the university on results day with your results and ask whether they will offer you a place. Universities can only make offers to students who are not holding offers so I assume you would need to ask your university to release your from your deferred place.

Reply 2

PS Reviewer

For architecture you’re likely to be asked to submit your portfolio even in clearing.

Reply 3

McGinger

And its unlikely that top Arch courses (Bath, Loughborough etc) will be in Clearing - its probably a better idea to take a year out and reapply with known grades. You could also do a 1-year Art & Design Foundation course in a gap year (https://www.thecompleteuniversityguide.co.uk/student-advice/what-to-study/art-and-design-foundation-diplomas).

Reply 4

JBench2003

Ok. Thanks for all the advice. I think it has helped me figure out what I am going to do

Reply 5

instructional-di

Original post by PQ

For architecture you’re likely to be asked to submit your portfolio even in clearing.

Can they still reject your portfolio?

Reply 6

PS Reviewer

Original post by instructional-di

Can they still reject your portfolio?

yes of course - it's a design based degree, if you don't have any design skills then they won't make an offer

Reply 7

instructional-di

Original post by PQ

yes of course - it's a design based degree, if you don't have any design skills then they won't make an offer

What would you say is the main thing they are looking for in a portfolio?

Reply 8

PS Reviewer

Original post by instructional-di

What would you say is the main thing they are looking for in a portfolio?

generally: observational drawing and sketches (including life drawing where possible), 3d design and making work, 2d representations of 3d objects.

But each university will be different - some will be looking for more creative work, some will be looking for your use of colour or perspective etc etc etc

Reply 9

instructional-di

Original post by PQ

generally: observational drawing and sketches (including life drawing where possible), 3d design and making work, 2d representations of 3d objects.
But each university will be different - some will be looking for more creative work, some will be looking for your use of colour or perspective etc etc etc

When you apply via clearing do they still ask you to submit it alongside with an interview or do they just ask to see the portfolio

Reply 10

PS Reviewer

Original post by instructional-di

When you apply via clearing do they still ask you to submit it alongside with an interview or do they just ask to see the portfolio

Very few architecture courses still interview. They look at portfolios instead.

But what happens in clearing will vary between universities. Do you have any idea which universities you want to apply for?