If you get rejected from a university, can you apply again through clearing?
Not being accepted by one of your top 5 university choices is tough.
After all the time and effort you put into your application, hearing "no" can feel like a major setback. But here’s the good news: this doesn’t mean the end of your university journey.
Yes, you can apply again through Clearing, just like 38,140 students did last year!
Clearing gives you a second chance and another opportunity to find a course that’s the right fit for you, even if things haven’t gone exactly as planned. Whether you haven’t received the offers you hoped for, or you’re simply rethinking your options, this guide will help you understand what might have happened previously and how you can still secure a university place, possibly even at the same place that you originally applied to.
What to do if you get rejected from university
First things first…don’t panic! University rejection is more common than you might think, and it doesn’t close every door. Here’s what to do next:
1. Check your UCAS Track account
You’ll be able to see decisions from all your choices here. Look for any notes or feedback if they’re available.
2. Take stock of your options
If you’ve not been offered a place by any of your choices, you’ll automatically become eligible for UCAS Clearing. You could:
- Reapply to the same university if the course is in Clearing
- Apply through Clearing to different universities and higher education providers
- Take a gap year and reapply next year
3. Get advice
Speak to a teacher, careers adviser, or someone at a university / higher education provider (like UCEN Manchester) to talk through your options and get guidance.
"We have seen so many students find their direction through Clearing. Not getting your first choice doesn’t define your future, it just redirects it.” -UCEN Admissions team
Learn more about how clearing works here!
Why would a university reject you?
Understanding why you haven't been offered a place at your first-choice university can help you move forward smarter. Here are some of the most common reasons students get turned down:
1. Your predicted or actual grades didn’t meet the entry requirements
Universities often set minimum grade requirements for each course, and those are taken seriously. Even missing the mark by one grade, especially in a key subject, can lead to a university not offering you a place. This is particularly true for competitive courses where there’s high demand .
2. The course was oversubscribed
Sometimes it’s not about you, it’s about capacity. A course might receive hundreds or even thousands of applications for just a handful of spots. Even if your grades and personal statement are strong, if the course is full, universities have to make difficult decisions. In these cases, it doesn’t mean you weren’t good enough, just that the competition was fierce.
3. Your personal statement didn’t stand out
Your personal statement is your voice in the application. It’s your chance to show why you're passionate about the subject, what you've done to prepare, and why you’re a good fit. If it’s vague, too generic, or filled with clichés, it may not grab the admissions team’s attention. A strong statement is specific, reflective, and shows genuine enthusiasm backed by experience or insight.
4. Weak or vague references
Universities look closely at the reference provided by your school or college. A great reference can reinforce your strengths and potential, but a weak one can raise doubts. If your reference is generic or lukewarm or doesn’t speak clearly about your suitability for the course, it can undermine the rest of your application.
5. Incomplete or late application
This might sound obvious but every year, students submit their application after the deadline or without key information.
Universities have tight timelines and limited flexibility, so meeting every deadline and double-checking your application for completeness is essential.
Do universities tell you if you are rejected?
Yes, universities update their decision on your UCAS Track account. While they often don’t give detailed feedback, you’ll see if an application has been unsuccessful. Some universities may offer feedback if you ask for it - and that information can be useful when reapplying through Clearing or next year.
Can you appeal a university rejection?
Generally no, there’s no formal appeal process for academic decisions. However, if you believe there was a mistake or unfair process (like a missing predicted grade), you can contact the university to discuss it.
That said, it’s often faster and more effective to move forward. And that’s where Clearing comes in.
Can you reapply to a university after rejection in the same year?
Yes, if the course you applied for becomes available in Clearing. You’re free to contact the university directly and express your continued interest. If you’ve now met the entry requirements or have compelling reasons to reapply, some universities may consider you. It's always worth making the call.
What happens if you get rejected from all universities?
If you aren’t accepted into one of your choices, you’re not out of the game. You’ll automatically become eligible for UCAS Clearing. Clearing opens on Thursday, 14 August at 8am.
Clearing is designed for exactly this situation; to help students find unfilled university places, even after A-level results are released.
Do you have to do the same subject as your previous choices in Clearing?
No, you don’t have to stick to the same subject you originally applied for. Clearing gives you the freedom to explore other options, whether that means switching subjects completely or choosing a different course within a similar field.
In fact, many students use Clearing to pivot to something they’re more passionate about or better suited to. Maybe your interests have changed, or maybe you’ve discovered a different career path that excites you more.
As long as you meet the entry requirements and can explain your motivation when speaking to admissions teams, changing direction is absolutely possible.
How does Clearing work after rejection?
Here’s the step-by-step process:
Step 1: Check if you’re eligible for Clearing
You can use Clearing if you:
- Didn’t receive or accept any offers
- Didn’t meet your offer conditions
- Applied after 30 June
Step 2: Search for available courses
Use the UCAS Clearing tool or go directly to university websites. Courses update daily, so check often.
Step 3: Contact universities
- Call the admissions team directly.
- Be ready to share your UCAS number, grades, and reasons for interest.
- This is your chance to make a great impression.
Step 4: Get an informal offer
- If they like what they hear, they may offer you a place on the phone or by email.
Step 5: Accept the offer through UCAS
- Log in to UCAS and add the university as your Clearing choice.
- Once accepted, that becomes your confirmed place.
Is it difficult to secure a uni place through clearing?
Thousands of students get places through Clearing every year. If you’re flexible and proactive, your chances are good. Focus on universities and higher education providers that value real potential and offer strong student support, like UCEN Manchester.
“Clearing isn’t just about filling spaces, it’s about helping students find the right course and thrive in an environment that supports them. At UCEN Manchester, we look beyond grades and focus on your goals, your drive, and your future.” — UCEN Manchester Admissions Team
Can you apply to new universities in Clearing?
Absolutely. In fact, many students use Clearing as an opportunity to apply to places they hadn’t originally considered. It’s your chance to explore courses and providers that may be an even better fit.
One strong option is UCEN Manchester. We are a leading higher education provider of career-focused degrees and higher education qualifications. If you’re looking for personalised support, hands-on learning, and clear career pathways, it’s worth a serious look.
Why choose UCEN Manchester as your Clearing option
If you didn’t secure one of your top five choices, we’re here to help you refocus and move forward with confidence. Our friendly admissions team will support you through every step of the Clearing process, making sure you find a course that fits your goals and interests.
We offer a wide range of higher education subjects, including performing arts, computing, sport, business, healthcare, construction, creative media, and more so whatever your passion, you’ll find a place here.
With smaller class sizes, we give you the one-to-one attention and support you need to succeed. Our courses are industry-focused, designed to get you career-ready with real-world experience and strong employer connections. And with our modern campuses based in Manchester - one of the UK’s best student cities - you’ll be studying in a vibrant, inspiring environment.
If you didn’t get the university offers you were hoping for, don’t worry, you still have options, and we’re here to help you make the most of them!
At UCEN Manchester, we’re ready to support you through Clearing and help you find the right course, the right path, and a future you can feel excited about. Explore our Clearing courses and apply now.