There are many reasons why students may apply to university after the UCAS deadline. Whether you were riddled with indecision as to what you might want to do next in life or had a personal circumstance that made it difficult to plan ahead, you should not feel like it’s too late to go to university! You can apply via Clearing, even if you did not apply before the published UCAS deadline of the 31st January.
What is Clearing?
Clearing is a UCAS service that provides students with the opportunity to apply for university places which haven’t yet been filled, outside of the normal application window. It opens on 5 July and continues until places are filled before the start of the university term. Any available places on courses at universities across the UK are advertised via the UCAS Clearing search tool.
Here are some things to keep in mind if you are considering applying to Queen Margaret University (QMU) via Clearing:
1) Explored the range of courses available: QMU has an excellent range of courses available through Clearing each year. We suggest you familiarise yourself with the relevant course page on our website for all the information you will need about tuition fees, course structure and entry requirements. With our diverse and unique course offering, all of which are career-focused, we recommend looking at our complete list of courses in clearing, to make sure that you aren’t missing a course that might be better suited for you.
2) Consider the institution's fit for your lifestyle: You might already have a good of idea of what you would like to study but it’s worth considering carefully which institution might be the best choice for you and your lifestyle. QMU is a great choice for those in the Scottish Central Belt, as our sustainable campus has great transport links and is also accessible by bike, on foot or car. We are only a six-minute train journey from Edinburgh Waverley Station!
It is important to remember that university is not just about your course and curriculum. When picking a university do bear in mind other elements of the student experience, such as services and student support. As a smaller university, our students benefit from smaller class sizes, and close support from lecturers. With a strong focus on supporting you through your student journey and enabling you to thrive, we have an excellent range of student services, from counselling and wellbeing, student funding, disability to careers and employability. At QMU, you will be supported at every stage of your journey.
3) Be prepared and act quickly: Clearing places can fill up fast, so it’s essential to be prepared to make decisions quickly. Make a shortlist of courses you are interested in and have your documentation ready.
4) Reach out for support and advice: Don’t hesitate to contact the admissions team if you have any questions or need guidance ahead of Clearing opening on the 5th July. Once Clearing opens a dedicated Clearing team will be able to answer your enquiry (contact information will be available on our Clearing webpage at the time) QMU’s friendly and supportive staff are here to help you every step of the way and will assist with any questions concerns you might have.
5) Stay positive and open-minded: Lastly, keep a positive and open-minded attitude. Clearing can be a stressful process, but it’s also an opportunity to find a course and a university that could be a perfect fit for you. Many of our students have joined us through Clearing and have gone on to pursue fulfilling careers they might not have considered otherwise.