UK A-Level Results Day Triggers University Clearing Process

Hundreds of thousands of students across the United Kingdom received their A-level results on Thursday, August 13, 2026, triggering the start of the university Clearing process for those who did not secure their preferred or insurance choices. The annual results day determines whether applicants have met the conditions of their university offers, with Clearing providing a second chance to secure a place on a course with available spots.

The Clearing system, managed by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS), officially opened on July 2, allowing students to research vacancies. However, applicants could only enter Clearing after receiving their grades. On results day, students could access their UCAS Hub from 8 a.m. to see their status, with Clearing choices becoming available from 1 p.m. The process runs on a first-come, first-served basis and remains open until October 19.

Clearing is available to students who did not meet the conditions of their firm or insurance offers, received no offers initially, applied after June 30, or have changed their minds about their course or university. It is also an option for those who exceeded their predicted grades and wish to...