Clearing will once again play a prominent role for many young people in Cardiff this summer. The UCAS system opens the clearing process from July to October 2026, with the main A-level results day scheduled for Thursday 13 August 2026. For those who find their exam outcomes different to expectations, clearing is not simply a fallback: it is an established route to secure a place at university for September entry.
Who can use clearing?
Clearing is available to a number of applicants. You may be eligible if you did not meet the conditions of a firm or insurance offer, achieved higher-than-expected grades and want to switch courses, changed your mind after receiving an unconditional offer, declined offers, applied after 30 June, or currently hold no offers at all. A prerequisite is that applicants must be registered with UCAS and able to access the UCAS Hub.
Practical preparation and what to take to the call
Universities often consider achieved grades alongside personal interest, experience and motivation. To improve your chances when speaking to a university on results day, gather key documents and information beforehand:
- UCAS personal ID and UCAS Hub login details
- Your subject grades and certificates if available
- A short, confident summary of why you want the course and what you would contribute
- A quiet workspace, a charged phone and reliable internet
When discussing options with an admissions team you may be given a verbal or conditional offer. If an offer is made, you must add that clearing choice in the UCAS Hub by the deadline the university sets — often the same day and sometimes by midnight (UK time). Keep a written log of who you spoke to, when, and what was offered to avoid confusion.
How universities, including Cardiff, will help
Local institutions prepare to support applicants on results day. Cardiff University, like many others, provides guidance and dedicated channels on results day so that applicants can contact them directly through clearing portals or by phone. These services aim to answer queries and consider applicants on the basis of their final grades and suitability for the course.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Clearing period | July–October 2026 |
| Main A-level results day | Thursday 13 August 2026 |
| Where to action choices | UCAS Hub; direct contact with universities |
Tips to avoid last-minute problems
- Research courses and entry requirements ahead of results day so you have options ready.
- Prepare and practise a short pitch explaining why you are a good fit for each course.
- Record every conversation — name, time, course code, any conditions and deadlines.
Clearing has placed tens of thousands of students into degree programmes in recent years. For many in Cardiff it will be a route to continue their education locally or elsewhere. Proper preparation, a calm approach on results day and prompt use of the UCAS Hub will improve the chances of securing a suitable place.
