Clearing 101: 8 things parents and carers need to know

Parents and carers, it’s time to get ready for results day. We’ve broken down everything you need to know about Clearing in 8 simple steps. From what it is and when it opens, to how you can support your child on results day.
Drop any advice or tips in the comments to help others! Or take a look at our full parents and carers guide on our website.
1. What is clearing?
Clearing helps students to find a university place who have:

2. When does it open?
Clearing opens on 5 July 2025.
See what courses are available on UCAS or view University of Staffordshire vacancies on our website.
3. Be prepared
Have a plan B! What about a slightly different course or a foundation year first? Doing research now means you can act more quickly on results day.
4. Be ready for results day
UCAS Track is updated at around 8am on results day (14 August).
Got better results than expected or changed their mind? They can decline their place and explore new options through Clearing.
5. Be supportive and positive
Remember, it’s their decision and their future.
Spotted a course they’re interested in? Encourage them to contact the university themselves.
At University of Staffordshire, we also offer a chat online option or an offer calculator on our website for an instant offer.
6. Ask questions
Ask as many questions as you want. It could also be a good option to arrange a chat with an academic or current student.
7. Accepting an offer
Once they’ve got an initial offer, they can formally accept it through the UCAS hub. Bear in mind, places tend to fill up quickly.
8. Visit us
Knowing the University is the right fit for your child is really important, so go and see it for yourself and arrange a campus tour with a student ambassador.