Clearing VIP guide
10 ways to prepare for Clearing
1. Research all the degree courses that interest you
Spending some time reading up about courses now will mean you’re ahead of the game come A-level Results Day on 18 August. Does the course content excite you? Will you just be going to seminars and lectures, or would you prefer something more practical? What career options will open up for you? Have these questions in mind while you’re doing your research.
2. Consider location, location, location
Would you like to stay close to home, or would you prefer to explore a new place? What city or town can you see yourself living in? What are the benefits of city versus country life? You’ll be studying at university for three years or more, so make sure the place you choose has enough going on to keep you happy and interested.
Get to know our single-site campus, which includes top facilities and a college green
3. Get a feel for the place...
If you have time, it is worth visiting your potential university options. However, if you can make it to an in-person event or campus tour, you can visit us virtually.
5. Feel free to ask questions
If you have any burning questions about the course or university, there’s still time to get them answered. You can live chat with our friendly Course Enquiries team 9am to 4pm via the bot on our website, or email them at course-info@gold.ac.uk any time until A-level Results Day – they’ll be happy to help.
6. Set your alarm and charge your phone!
The Goldsmiths Clearing Hotline will be open from 8am to 8pm on Thursday 18 August. Stay close to the phone if you have signed up for our Clearing VIP Priority Callback Service where we ring you and, if you’re on your mobile, make sure it has enough battery!
You'll be able to speak to one of our friendly staff members on A-Level results day
7. Remember: you're chatting to a human
Speaking to a stranger over the phone can be a little nerve-wracking for some people. But our Clearing Team is made up of friendly specialists who will try to put you at ease and help you as much as they can. We’ll also be available on WhatsApp and Messenger if you’d prefer to get in touch that way.
8. Take your time
If you’re offered a Clearing place, great news! But you don’t need to make a snap decision. Feel free to take a little time to consider your options. Chatting to friends and family can help clarify your decision and get you excited about your next steps.
Make sure you research what course you want to study at university
9. Be aware of the Clearing process
If you’ve been offered a place and would like to accept it – that’s fantastic! There will just be a few steps you’ll need to take to accept your offer, including logging into UCAS Track and nominating your preferred Clearing choice. You’ll be able to do this on Thursday 18 August from 2pm. It’s only after doing this that your Clearing place will be confirmed.
10. Try not to worry
Going through Clearing can be stressful, and it might feel like there’s a lot of pressure on you to make the right decision. But try not to worry. Even if you don’t get the grades you expected, there will be options open to you. Whatever happens, things will be OK, and you could soon be starting an exciting new chapter of your life.
Applying – Cleared! Watch our advice on applying through Clearing
Don't forget to do your research! Make sure you know what courses you’re interested in ahead of time.