Ultimate Clearing Guide 2024

Introduction

If you’re considering using Clearing to find a university course that’s right for you, you’ve come to the right place.

We’re one of the few universities to release our Clearing courses and entry criteria early, so you have time to do some research and make plans for your future.

This Ultimate Clearing Guide will tell you everything you need to know about Clearing at Coventry University.

What is Clearing?

Put simply, Clearing is a process that matches those who are looking for a university place for September 2024, with institutions that still have unfilled places.

If you’ve already applied for university, Clearing offers you the chance to change your mind and if you’ve not applied at all, you’ve still got time.

It is important to understand that university course spaces in Clearing constantly change, as places are released and filled.

You can only apply for one course at a time through Clearing.

Clearing dates 2024

Choose us in Clearing and get a boost

If you accept your Clearing offer within 24 hours you can choose from one of the following for free when you join us in September: choose either £100 in food vouchers, a three-year rail and coach discount card, or free parking for your first semester.

• We also offer guaranteed accommodation and a £200 discount on two of our halls of residence.
• And if you’re commuting from Birmingham, you could be entitled to a free train/bus travel pass for each year of your studies.

Find out more

Who is Clearing for?

Clearing is for you if:

• you’ve not yet applied to university for this September
• you didn’t receive any offers for the courses you’ve applied for
• your results mean you didn’t meet the conditions of your offer(s)
• you don’t want to accept the offer(s) you’ve had
• you’ve changed your mind about where or what you want to study.

Clearing is open to everyone, whether you’re a UK or international student, a school leaver or a mature student (i.e. over 21 and returning after a break from full-time education).

International applicants

If you’re applying to study a course from outside of the UK, there are some differences in when you can start applying and the documentation you need.

Find out more about Clearing for international students.

Clearing Guide for Parents

Going through University Clearing can be difficult for a child so being a parent equipped with all the information can help. Learn how to support your child through the Clearing process.

How to enter Clearing

There are only three ways you can enter Clearing:

1. Automatic release: if you are registered with UCAS, have made your choices but don’t meet the entry requirements, you will automatically be moved into Clearing. Keep checking your status for the notification.
2. Self-release: if you’ve changed your mind about where or what you want to study, you can self-release yourself into Clearing by declining your firm place. We recommend that you call us first and get a provisional offer before you decline the offer you already hold.
3. Late application: If you’ve decided that the time is right and you want to apply to university for the first time, then Clearing is for you.

Apply for a different course at Coventry University

Applied to Coventry University but want to change your course? We can help.

If you’ve already made an application to study with us but want to transfer to a different course, let us know by completing our short form.

We’ll make the course change for you on your UCAS Hub or contact you directly to discuss your options.

How to prepare for Clearing

Your clearing call

Don’t panic and don’t rush - you’ve done your research and you’re ready to make the call:

  Call now   +44 (0)2476 888 888

Clearing Hotline Opening Hours

• Hotline open 8am to 7pm Monday to Friday

Our team will talk to you about what you hope to study and work with you to find the course for you.

You’ll need these things to hand:

• your UCAS number
• your Clearing number
• the grades of your A Levels, SQAs or equivalent
• your UCAS points (from the tariff calculator) and GCSE grades (if you didn't make the grade in a particular A Level subject, a strong GCSE grade might help).

Prepare to answer some questions

Universities want to know you’re serious about studying with them. They’re not looking to catch you out but expect them to ask questions such as:

• what qualifications do you have and where did you study?
• why are you interested in this course?
• why are you interested in studying with us?

Your answers will help our Clearing team find the best options for you.

Friday, 5 July 2024 is when Clearing opens and our dedicated team are ready to take your call.

While GDPR regulations prevent our Clearing team from seeing your exam results directly, they're still here to help you.

Remember, we’ll need to speak to you on the day, not a friend or family member.

During the call

Clearing teams are there to support you in making the right decision, so stay confident and don’t be afraid to speak honestly. The call is your opportunity to show a university that you have the enthusiasm and passion to study with them, so share any relevant work experience alongside your qualifications.

Universities are likely dealing with hundreds of calls at any one time, so be prepared to wait a short while. If a line is engaged, don't waste time – move on to your next option and try again later.

After you receive a Clearing offer to study with us, you will receive an email with what steps you’ll need to take next, including any deadlines.

Want to know what to expect when you apply though #Clearing?

We've created a mock call to give you an idea of what it will sound like to help you prepare and settle any nerves you may have.

What happens after I get an offer through Clearing?

We will send you a provisional offer email straight after the call. Once you’re ready to accept, add us as a Clearing choice in your UCAS application. Click 'add Clearing choice' and fill in the course details.

1. We'll confirm your offer via UCAS, and it will show as an acceptance on your 'Choices' page in your application.
2. We will then send you a welcome email with all the information you need to start your journey with us. This will include your student ID number, which you will need to use when applying for accommodation.
3. If you have already applied for student finance, you will need to update your course and university details through your online account.
4. It is also worth checking if there are any scholarships or bursaries available to help you fund your education. Find out more about scholarships and bursaries for UK students or international scholarships, bursaries and discounts.

Some universities might give you a deadline for applying for your course, so be sure to make a note and apply in time, otherwise you’ll lose out.

Course interviews during Clearing

Our course interviews during Clearing are designed to support you in making the right choices. Here are some tips to set you up for success:

Know your course

Demonstrate an understanding of the subject area you have applied for.

We have course-specific guides to course interviews during the main UCAS application period. Look at these to identify key information you need to know for your course

Highlight your achievements

Showcase what makes you a great candidate by helping us understand your motivations for applying to this course and the qualities that make you a great fit for your chosen profession.

Prepare questions for the interviewer

Think about anything you want to know about the course, the campus and support services. Getting answers to your questions will help you decide which university and course is right for you. Asking questions will also demonstrate your interest in studying at Coventry University.

Choose a quiet and well-lit room

If you have an online interview,- find a quiet, well-lit room free from distractions and background noise. Ideally, find a room with a closable door to minimise interruptions. We arrange the interview time with you, so ensure you accept a time when this is possible.

Be punctual and professional

Being on time is important. Show up for your interview at the right time and act professionally throughout. If something comes up and you can't make it, let the interviewer know as soon as possible - you can either reschedule or cancel.

Book the earliest slot you’re available for

Spaces on our interviewing courses fill up quickly, so please book an interview as soon as possible, for the earliest convenient slot.

Conclusion

Don't worry if your original plans haven't worked out, Clearing is a chance to find your perfect fit.

While time is important, there's no need to panic. Our Clearing team is here to help you explore the available courses that match your interests and aspirations.

Whether you’ve got a clear idea of where you want to be and what you want to study, or you’re keen to explore your options – we’re here to help.

Call our Clearing hotline:

  Call now   +44 (0)2476 888 888

  WhatsApp +44 (0)79 8442 3204

Good luck and we hope to see you on campus soon!