Things I wish I had known before using Clearing

When to consider Clearing

If you’re already having those “Is this really what I want to do for the next four years?” thoughts… take that as your first sign.

For me, it was the constant dread of placements, zero interest in my lectures, and that sinking gut feeling of “This just isn’t me.”

Here are a few more signs it might be time to consider Clearing:

• You’re spending more time researching other courses than focusing on your current one.

• You feel stuck, not excited, about where things are heading.

• You’re applying after 30 June (this means you’ll automatically enter Clearing).

• You didn’t get the results needed to meet your uni offer.

• You keep daydreaming about dropping out - more than once a day.

If any of these feel familiar, Clearing might be the reset you didn’t know you needed.

How to start the process

Step one: Breathe.
Seriously. I know it feels overwhelming right now, but I promise this is totally manageable.

Step two: Start researching (with snacks, obviously).
Make a list of courses and universities that genuinely interest you. Look into modules, career paths, student life - anything that helps you picture your future there. I went through university websites like it was my full-time job. No regrets.

One thing I really wish I’d known about? Leeds Beckett’s Priority Clearing Pass.
It gives you early updates on available courses, a straight forward application route, and just makes life so much easier when Clearing officially opens. If you haven’t signed up yet - do it now. You’ll thank yourself later.

What you'll need

Here’s your Clearing day checklist:

- Your UCAS Personal ID and Clearing number (you’ll find both on your UCAS Hub)
- A list of your qualifications and grades - yes, even the ones you’d rather forget
- A shortlist of courses you’re interested in (trust me, this helps)
- A fully charged phone, you’ll be making a few important calls
- And most importantly… water. (Time to step away from the Red Bull. You’ve got this.)

The actual conversations

When you start calling universities, don’t panic about sounding perfect. This isn’t a TED Talk, no one’s expecting a polished speech. Just be yourself and be ready to chat through a few key things:

- Why you’re interested in the course
- What excites you about the subject
- Your grades and any relevant experience

For me, Leeds Beckett really stood out because the Clearing team made everything feel personal and supportive. I had a relaxed, helpful chat with a Student Ambassador who guided me through my UCAS application step by step. Then, I spoke directly to a lecturer from my new course and they took the time to answer all my big, future-focused, slightly-panicked questions with honesty and patience. It made all the difference.

Finding accommodation

Accommodation was one of my biggest worries. I remember thinking, “Surely everything’s fully booked by now, right?” Spoiler: it wasn’t.

Leeds Beckett still had plenty of options available, even in late summer. The accommodation team were honestly amazing, they talked me through what was left, the prices, locations, and exactly how to apply.

Pro tip: As soon as you confirm your place through Clearing, get in touch with the accommodation team. They’re total pros at helping last-minute students and will make sure you find something that suits you.

The emotional bit

You’ll overthink.
You’ll question if it’s the right decision.
You’ll worry about what other people might think.

But here’s what I realised: this is your life. Your degree. Your future.

You’re the one who’ll be going to the lectures, writing the essays, and turning your course into a career - not anyone else. So make the choice that feels right for you. Choose what makes you excited to get started.

Final thoughts

Clearing isn’t failure. It’s not just a backup plan. It’s a second chance to find the path that’s right for you.

If I hadn’t gone through Clearing, I’d probably still be slogging through a degree I didn’t care about, counting down the days until graduation like it was a sentence. But now? I’m at Leeds Beckett, studying something I truly love, and I’m genuinely excited about what’s ahead.

So, if you’re feeling unsure right now… Take the leap. You’ve got this. And Leeds Beckett will be there to support you every step of the way.

And remember...

UP THE BECKETT!