Clearing: Frequently Asked Questions
We know that the Clearing process can feel a little overwhelming, and that’s completely normal. Whether you're exploring your options, didn’t quite get the results you were hoping for, or have simply had a change of heart about where or what you want to study — we’re here for you.
To make things easier, we’ve put together answers to some of the most common questions students have about Clearing. Our goal is to help you feel confident, informed, and supported every step of the way.
No matter where you’re at in your journey, we’re here to guide you through it. Let’s take this one step at a time — together.
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Can I use Clearing to apply for a postgraduate course? No, Clearing is for our undergraduate programmes only. You can apply for postgraduate study here. |
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Will all undergraduate courses be available in Clearing? The majority of our courses will be open in Clearing. Vacancies will be listed on the UCAS course search tool or you can search for courses here on our website. |
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Can I apply via clearing if I am overseas? We are unable to accept applications in Clearing from International students who will require a visa to study. |
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I have non-UK qualifications. Will I be eligible for Clearing? If you don't require a student visa to study with us, we are happy to accept non-UK qualifications to meet entry requirements. Please ensure that you have your certificates when you call our Application Hotline so that we can confirm exact requirements. |
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Another uni rejected me, can I apply to the University of Suffolk through Clearing? We are happy to talk to applicants who may have been rejected by another university, our Admissions Team can talk to you about your results and advise you on the best options for you. |
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Can I change my firm and insurance choice on results day? If you have changed your mind and no longer want to accept your firm choice you can use the ‘decline my place’ button in your UCAS application. However, you can’t swap your firm and insurance choices if you have met the conditions of your firm choice. If you now want to go to your insurance choice you will need to check with them that they can accept you in Clearing. |
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Can I reject my insurance offer and go through clearing instead? Yes you can! |
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I was rejected in the normal cycle by the University of Suffolk, can I apply to Suffolk via clearing? Unfortunately, you cannot apply to study the same course in Clearing that you were rejected for in the main application cycle. However, we will be happy to consider an application from you for an alternative course. |
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What information do I need when I call the Clearing Team? We will ask you for:
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I don’t have copies of my certificates, how do I get these? Contact an exam board to get a replacement exam certificate or certified statement of results. You cannot get a replacement certificate for an O level, CSE, GCSE or A level - your exam board will send you a ‘certified statement of results’ instead. You can use this in place of your exam certificate. Boards may give you a replacement certificate for other qualifications they offer. You may need to prove your identity and pay a fee. |
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How do I accept an offer? If you have applied through UCAS you’ll need to log in to your UCAS Hub and add the University of Suffolk as your Clearing choice.
You can only add one Clearing choice at a time though, so don’t add us until we’ve emailed you confirming that we can make you a Clearing offer. And if you’re not already in UCAS, no problem! We’ll let you know in your confirmation email what to do next and how to accept your offer. |
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How do I find accommodation whilst going through clearing? Our website has lots of useful information and advice about accommodation that we recommend. There may still be accommodation available on campus, although as demand can fluctuate this is difficult to predict. We recommend that you make enquiries with the landlord of properties you are interested in once you have made an application to study with us. |