More Students Opt for Clearing Process Post A-level Results

An increasing number of students are opting to wait until A-level results day to finalize their degree course choices, according to the admissions chief. Dr. Saxton noted that the largest group of applicants utilizing the clearing process last year consisted of those who chose to "trade in" their original offers. Traditionally, clearing was reserved for students who fell short of their predicted grades, but the balance of power has shifted, allowing students to leverage their results to secure places at more prestigious institutions. This year, over a quarter of a million pupils are set to receive their A-level results, with many expected to enter the clearing process. Dr. Saxton highlighted the abundance of options available, stating that a wide range of courses, from medicine to psychology, are on offer. Recent analysis indicates that more top universities have courses available through clearing compared to the previous year, with 21,620 applicants successfully securing new placements after declining their original offers in 2023, up from 19,635 in 2022. Approximately 29 percent of candidates accepted through clearing last summer were those who opted for different courses after rejecting their firm choices. Dr. Saxton emphasized the ongoing debate regarding post-qualification admissions, noting that students are increasingly exercising their choice within the system. Additionally, she mentioned that Ucas has provided universities with information about students affected by recent circumstances, ensuring that admissions teams are aware of the challenges faced by those from around 200 schools and colleges.