Picking up the phone to call a university can feel like the most daunting part of Clearing, but it doesn't have to be. Our Clearing hotline team speaks to hundreds of students every results day, and they're here to guide you through the process and help find the right course for you.
Here's everything you need to know before you call.
Do your research before results day
Use the time before your grades arrive to research your options and draw up a shortlist of courses and universities you'd be happy with. Note down their hotline numbers so you're not scrambling to find them on the morning itself.
If you know which universities you're interested in, it's worth with them too. That way, they'll have your details ready and can call you on results day.
What to prepare before you call
Having the right information to hand will make your call quicker and smoother. Make sure you have:
- Your UCAS ID
- Your Clearing Number
- Your highest qualification type (e.g. A-levels, BTEC)
- The subjects you studied and your grades
During the call, we'll also ask for your full name, email address and phone number, so we can follow up with any offers or next steps.
What happens during a Clearing call?
Our team will ask about your qualifications and the course you're interested in, check whether you meet the entry requirements, and talk you through your options. If we can make you an offer, we'll explain exactly what to do next.
It's also your chance to ask questions – about , , or anything else that will help you decide.
See what a Clearing call is really like
We know calling universities can be nerve-wracking, so we've filmed an example of what a Clearing call with us looks like:
Our tips for calling universities during Clearing
- Find a quiet spot. Take the call somewhere you can hear clearly and think without distractions – not on the bus or in a busy school corridor.
- Have a pen and paper ready. You'll want to jot down names, offer details and next steps, especially if you're calling more than one university.
- Make the call yourself. Universities need to speak to the applicant directly, so while parents and carers are welcome to listen in, the student should do the talking.
- Prepare a few questions in advance. Ask about anything that will help you decide – module content, placements, accommodation, or what campus life is like.
- Be yourself. The person on the other end wants to help you find the right course, not test you. Speak honestly about your results and what you're looking for.
- Don't rush your decision. If you receive an offer, thank them, note the details, and take the time you need to compare your options before accepting.
What happens after the call?
If a university offers you a place over the phone, take a breath – you don't have to say yes on the spot. It's fine to call a few universities, compare your offers, and take some time to decide which course feels right.
When you're ready to accept, you'll do this through UCAS Hub. Bear in mind that if you're still holding an offer from another university, you'll need to decline it before you can accept your new one.
When does the Clearing hotline open?
Our hotline opens on results day (13 August 2026). Lines are busiest first thing in the morning, so don't panic if you can't get through straight away. Our friendly team will be ready to help when you do.
In the meantime – or if you'd prefer not to call – you can reach us on live chat or WhatsApp , 10am – 3pm every weekday.
Clearing 2026 is now open
Register for Clearing today, or if you already have your results, you can .