Access Guide to Clearing
Access courses provide a great route to university for students who have been out of the education system for some time, or who might not have the traditional qualifications to study at university. Students of all ages and diverse backgrounds undertake Access courses.
Clearing runs from July to October and is a great opportunity to use your Access qualifications to secure a place on a university course that suits you.
Top tips for Clearing with an Access Course
Applying through Clearing with Access Qualifications: Top Tips from ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø
Prepare early for Clearing
You may receive the results of your Access Course before other results, such as A Levels, are published. If you are still looking for a university place, then you can use this time to ensure that you are ready for Clearing.
- Research Courses: Look for courses that interest you and that fit in with your Access Course qualifications. ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø has a wide range of programmes. Find a course that matches you and your goals.
- Check Entry Requirements: University courses have different entry requirements. These are listed on the course information pages on the ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø website or via UCAS. Knowing the entry requirements for your chosen course will help you be ready for results day.
Register Your Interest
Once you have completed your search for possible options in clearing, register your interest with us, let us know what interests you and we will keep in touch and let you know about opportunities open to you with us in Clearing.
- Complete our Clearing Enquiry Form: Once you have found the course you are looking for make your you register your interest for clearing, this will allow us to keep you up-to-date with information about our courses and clearing.
- Call our Clearing Hotline: Contact us at 0300 323 1828 to discuss your options and provide details of your BTEC qualifications and grades.
Our Clearing Hotline is Open
Call our Clearing Hotline today to get Clearing, Results Day and Course advice.
Results Day: Be Ready
If you have already applied to university, then on results day, log in to to see if you have been accepted by your firm or insurance choice. If, not, you’ll automatically be entered into Clearing. If you haven’t already applied via UCAS, then you can also make a late application via Clearing too.
When making a Clearing application you will need:
- Your Access Course results (and details of any other relevant qualifications that you may have).
- Your UCAS number (if you have one).
- The course code for the course you are interested in, you can find this on UCAS or on our course pages.
- Your chosen University’s Institution code (ours it T80)
- Any other personal information such as email address, telephone number, and your home address.
- Your Personal Statement, or other relevant documents that can support your application.
Having all your key information to hand will help ensure that your Clearing experience is straightforward and stress-free.
Be flexible
Your Access qualifications will prepare you for a wide range of undergraduate courses. Consider what elements of your Access studies you enjoyed the most and choose a university course that fits with your longer-term career goals. Prepare to be adaptable and be open to alternative course options that may be available during Clearing.
Remember, that you may also be able to combine your Access qualifications with other qualifications or experience that you have. Talk to our Clearing team, who will help you understand different course options and guide you through finding the best university course to suit you.
Access a wide range of support and advice to make the right Clearing choice for you
We understand that applying through Clearing can be a busy time, with lots to think about. Staying positive and proactive during the Clearing process can make a big difference.
There are many sources of information you can access. Websites such as and may be useful to look at.
ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø is also here to support you every step of the way. Whether you choose to call us, email or attend one of our Clearing Open Days, make sure you ask for guidance where needed and make the most of support and advice that is open to you.
In addition to your course choice, then there are 3 big things to think about that our dedicated teams are on hand to help with:
Attend a Clearing Open Day
Once you have received a clearing offer, take some time to weigh up your options and make the right decision for yourself.
Attending one of our Clearing Open Days will give you a wider opportunity to get a feel for student life at ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø and ask the key questions so you know you are making the right choice for you and your goals.
Once you have made your decision, you can confirm your university place through .
Final thoughts
Clearing is an excellent opportunity to secure a place on your chosen university course, using your Access Qualifications. At ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø we highly value the wider experience that Access student often bring to university. Remember, an Access Course has already shown your commitment and ability to succeed.
University is the next step in your educational journey. Register your interest, using our Clearing enquiry form, call our Clearing Hotline at 0300 323 1828 or explore our website for more information.
Good luck, and we look forward to welcoming you to ºÚÁϳԹÏÍø.
Access Course qualifications
Applying to Uni with an Access Course
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As well as providing academic subject knowledge, an Access course will also teach you essential study skills, such as research techniques, essay writing, time management, critical thinking and real-world skills. An Access Course is a good foundation to enable you to succeed at university.
Many Access courses include practical and vocational elements and cover a wide range of subjects, providing really valuable skills for those wishing to progress onto their chosen degree programme. -
To qualify for a university place through an Access to Higher Education Diploma, you’ll usually need to complete 60 credits at Level 3. This can be achieved full-time over one year or part-time across two or more years. Successful completion of an Access course can award you up to 144 UCAS Points, which is the equivalent of obtaining three A grades at A Level.