Will Universities Accept Lower Grades through Clearing?

A Level results day, 15^th August 2024, can be a stressful time. Finding out you’ve missed your grade requirements and have been entered into Clearing can make the process of going to university even more stressful.

But missing your grades doesn’t have to be end of the world. First things first, log into your UCAS page and check that you definitely haven’t been accepted by your first choice university. If you’re only just below the entry requirements they may still have given you a place.

If you’ve haven’t gotten on to the course then don’t panic, it’s time to keep calm and get through Clearing. And don’t think you’ll be stuck with the universities and course vacancies that nobody wants either; some of the top universities offer places through Clearing so you could still find yourself attending a great university.

Universities are fairly understanding and know that sometimes exams go pear-shaped and results don’t reflect what students are really capable of. Fortunately you’ll be talking to admissions tutors directly during the Clearing process so you’ll have a chance to convince them that there’s more to you than your exam results.

Most universities that have course vacancies during Clearing will be prepared to accept you if your grades are below their entry requirements as long as you sound passionate and are right for the degree subject.

They may also accept you based on the UCAS points you’ve accumulated rather than you final grades. For example, the entry requirements might be AAA and you’ve got ABB but your UCAS points might add up to enough to make the university give you a place.

Realistically if you’re only a grade away from the entry requirements you’ve got a fairly good chance of getting into a university during Clearing. However, don’t despair if you’re more than one grade away. Good personal statements, a clear idea of why you want to take the course, and a good telephone manner when you speak to the admissions tutor can all help you get the university place of your dreams.