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What If You Missed the Deadline? It’s Not Too Late to Apply!

Hey everyone ! I know you have probably read a lot about UCAS applications by now because it’s a few months before the start of the 2025/26 academic year . If you didn’t manage to submit your application then this is for you.
As a current student who has been where you are now , I know that the UCAS deadline can feel like a huge deal and your last chance to get into uni but missing it doesn’t mean your university dreams are over! There are still plenty of options, whether you’re applying for the first time, changing your mind, or didn’t get the offers you wanted. Here are some of your options:
1. UCAS Extra
If you’ve used all five of your choices and haven’t received an offer (or have declined them), UCAS Extra is your next step. It allows you to apply to universities with available spaces, and it’s a great way to secure a place without waiting for Clearing. Keep an eye on university websites and UCAS for updates on which courses still have spaces!You can do this directly on your UCAS application , it’s free and you can add one more options before the 30th of June.
2. Early Clearing
If you still have no offers but the 5th of July , clearing is your next best options . Last summer, I worked as a Clearing Assistant, helping students secure places at DMU. I spoke to so many applicants who thought they had no chance of getting in. but by the end of the call, they had a confirmed place on a course they were excited about! Whether you missed the January deadline or just decided late that you want to go to university, Clearing is your chance to find the right course for you. Keep in mind that clearing is dependent on which courses still have space , in most cases some of the most competitive courses tend to be full but it’s still worth calling your university of choice to check .

Some Tips If You’re Applying Late:
Stay calm It’s not over! Universities want students, and there are always spaces available.
Check UCAS Extra If you’ve already applied but don’t have offers, this is your next step.
Start researching now Look at courses with vacancies and contact admissions teams.
Prepare for Clearing Results day isn’t just for those who missed grades, its also a great time to apply if you’re still looking for a place.

If you’re in this position, don’t panic! There’s still time to get into university, and you might end up on a course that’s even better suited for you. If you need advice, reach out to universities directly , our admissions and enquiries team are ready to support you and happy to help and so will most universities.
Good luck! You’ve got this. If you have anymore questions please pop them down below and I’d be happy to share more about my experiences with clearing .
Cece:smile:
Energy Engineering Student
De Montfort University

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