Clearing 2026 key dates
Results day is almost here. Every date that matters this cycle, and what actually happens on each one.
- Thursday, 2 July 2026Passed
Clearing opens
Clearing opens for applicants without a place. If you already have your results, you can start contacting universities straight away.
- Tuesday, 4 August 2026Passed
SQA results (Scotland)
Scottish Qualifications Authority results are released. Scottish applicants can enter Clearing from this date.
- Thursday, 13 August 2026
A-level results day
A-level, BTEC and T-level results are released. Grades appear in the UCAS Hub from 8am.
- Thursday, 13 August 2026
Clearing choices open
You can add a Clearing choice in the UCAS Hub from 1pm on results day — but only after a university has verbally offered you a place.
- Monday, 19 October 2026
Clearing closes
The last date to add a Clearing choice. Most courses fill long before this — the vast majority of places go in the first week.
How results day itself runs
The timings on A-level results day are fixed and they matter, because the gap between them is where places are won:
- From 8am — your grades and your application status appear in the UCAS Hub. Schools open for results in person.
- 8am to 1pm — the phone window. Universities confirm their existing offer-holders and take Clearing calls. This is when you should be calling, not searching.
- From 1pm — you can add a Clearing choice in the Hub, but only after a university has verbally offered you a place.
Scotland runs on a different clock
SQA results land nine days before A-level results this year. Scottish applicants therefore enter Clearing before the main rush, when admissions lines are quieter and more courses are open. If you are in Scotland, that head start is a genuine advantage — use it.
Common questions
What time are A-level results released in 2026?
A-level results are available in the UCAS Hub from 8am on 13 August 2026. Schools and colleges usually open earlier for students collecting results in person. Clearing choices cannot be added to the Hub until 1pm the same day.
Why can't I add a Clearing choice until 1pm?
UCAS holds Clearing choices until 1pm on A-level results day so that universities have the morning to confirm their existing offer-holders first. The morning is for phone calls; the afternoon is for confirming the outcome in the Hub.
When does Clearing 2026 close?
Clearing closes on 19 October 2026. In practice most vacancies are gone far earlier — the majority of Clearing places are taken within the first week after A-level results day.
Can I start Clearing before results day?
Yes, if you already hold your results or you have no offers. Clearing opened on 2 July 2026. Scottish applicants can enter Clearing from SQA results day on 4 August 2026, ahead of the A-level rush.
Clearing 2026 — live
Find the universities worth calling
Search all 140 UK universities by subject, region and entry requirements — or ask our adviser what your grades could get you.