How to apply through Clearing

Study / Clearing / How to apply through Clearing

If you’ve decided Clearing is the right path for you, the next step is knowing exactly how to apply. Whether you're ready to call your chosen university or still figuring out your next move, we've broken it all down into simple, easy-to-follow steps.

From finding the right course to getting a verbal offer and accepting your place, we’re here to guide you through every part of the process - so you feel in control and confident about what happens next.

Find your course now

View all Clearing courses

Step 1 - Check out our Clearing guide

Check out our What is Clearing guide to find out if Clearing is right for you.

Step 2 - Find your course

Find the course you want to study and check entry requirements.

You can use the UCAS search tool or search directly on the university page. Click here to search for DMU Clearing courses and see if you meet the entry requirements.

If you don’t have your grades yet, don’t worry. You can still get a verbal Clearing offer now, and finalise the application process when you receive your grades.

Step 3 - Get in touch

Give us a call on +44 (0)116 257 7000 or WhatsApp on +44 7970 655 800. If you meet the entry requirements, you will receive a verbal offer. A verbal offer means that you have a reserved spot on the course, but you’ll still need to accept it by adding it as your formal Clearing choice on UCAS Hub. We’ve shared some Clearing phone call tips, make sure you check it out.

Step 4 - Accept your offer

Your steps to accepting your Clearing verbal offer will depend on your individual situation. Below are the most common situations you find yourself in.

  • You don't have a UCAS account

  • You have a UCAS account and don’t hold any offers

  • You have a UCAS account and hold an offer with another university

Step 5 - Wait for your unconditional offer

The university’s admissions team will process your application and there may be instances where they might ask you to submit some additional documents. You can start thinking about accommodation at this point to ensure you get your preferred room but wait until you receive your unconditional offer before making any deposits.

Step 6 - Celebrate and prepare for university 🎉

Well done, your place is confirmed, and you can start thinking about booking accommodation, sorting your student finance, and preparing for university. DMU offers guaranteed accommodation to all first-year undergraduate students, so there’s one less thing for you to worry about. Find out more about accommodation.

What to prepare for a Clearing phone call?

When you speak with one of our friendly advisers, they’ll ask for a few key details to help them make you an offer and talk you through your options. They’re here to support you and answer any questions you might have, so don’t be afraid to ask. It’s helpful to have the following information to hand:

  • Your full name and surname
  • Your date of birth
  • Your full address
  • Your phone number
  • Your UCAS ID
  • Your GCSEs and Level 3 qualifications

Don’t worry if you haven’t got your UCAS ID yet, you can still get an offer without one. However, you’ll need a UCAS account to finalise your application. You also don’t need to know all your results to get a verbal offer, and it’s a good idea to secure your place before the course fills up. Just remember, your offer will be conditional on meeting the Clearing entry criteria.

Keep a pen and paper nearby so you can jot down anything important—like the deadline to accept your offer. And if you think of something after the call, no problem. You can always drop us a quick message on WhatsApp at +44 7970 655 800.

Ask a question +44 (0)116 257 7000 WhatsApp

How to get an offer through Clearing

In this video, Praneal - former DMU student who now works at DMU - will explain how to research universities, what details to have ready before calling, and what to expect during the Clearing call. We’ll also explain the types of offers you might receive - and what happens next.

Frequently asked questions

  1. What if I'm not available on Results Day?

    It’s strongly recommended that you make Clearing enquiries yourself if possible. If you’re unable to call, you can also secure your Clearing offer via WhatsApp on +44 (0)116 257 7000.

    If you won’t be available at all, you can appoint a nominated person on your UCAS application. This allows them to contact us and discuss your application on your behalf. Make sure your nominated person has all your details and your grades, so the process runs as smoothly as possible.

    You can still make a Clearing enquiry after Results Day, but places fill up quickly. If you wait too long, your preferred course may no longer be available.

  2. Can I apply through Clearing without UCAS?

    You can secure a verbal Clearing offer without a UCAS account, but you will need to open one to accept your offer and finalise the application process. 

  3. Can I apply for clearing through the same University I've previously applied for?

    Yes, you can. However, in most cases you won’t be able to apply for the exact same course, unless any of the information you have previously provided to us has since changed. However, you can apply for any other course you meet the entry requirements for.

  4. Can I apply for the same course through Clearing?

    You won't usually be able to reapply for a course where you have been unsuccessful within the same academic cycle, unless any of the information

    However, you are welcome to contact us and apply to study a different course – you can view our full list of courses available through Clearing.

    you have previously provided to us has since changed.

  5. Can I apply for Clearing with an offer?

    Yes, you can. However, to accept your Clearing offer, you will need to release yourself from any other offer you’re currently holding. You can self-

    If you are holding a firm unconditional place, you can use online self-release into Clearing, by using the ‘decline your place’ button in Track. Please note that seeking a release from your current unconditional firm choice will mean that you are placed into Clearing. A release from your unconditional firm offer will not automatically allow you to go to your insurance choice.

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Parents and guardians

If you’re a parent or a guardian of a student thinking of applying to university, we have prepared a guide just for you. It contains all the information, terms, and timelines you need to be aware of to support your young person.

Parents guide