Clearing 2026: you don't have to live in London to study at UEL

Every year, thousands of University of East London (UEL) students travel to campus from across London, Essex, Kent and beyond, while others choose to study entirely online. If you're applying through Clearing 2026, you have more options than you might think.

Study in London while living at home

Moving away to university isn't the right choice for everyone, and it doesn't have to be.

Many UEL students choose to live at home while studying. It can help reduce accommodation costs, keep you close to family and friends, or make it easier to balance university with work or caring responsibilities.

With campuses in Stratford and Docklands, it's easy to commute from across London and the surrounding counties using public transport, making studying in the capital a realistic option without moving there.

Will I miss out if I commute?

One of the biggest questions prospective commuting students ask is whether they'll miss out on university life.

The answer is no.

You'll still attend lectures and seminars, use campus facilities, join student societies, meet classmates and access the same academic and wellbeing support as every other student. Many commuters build their timetable around lectures before spending time studying, socialising or taking part in activities on campus.

There isn't one typical UEL student. Some live in halls, some rent privately, some commute every day and others study online.

Distance learning is another way to study

If travelling to campus isn't practical, UEL currently has the following online courses with places available through Clearing 2026:

Undergraduate

•  BSc (Hons) Psychology (Distance Learning)
• BA (Hons) Education Studies Online
• BA (Hons) Early Childhood Studies Online 
• BA (Hons) Education Top Up Online 
• BA (Hons) Special Education Online

These courses are fully delivered online through UEL's virtual learning environment. You won't need to attend any on-campus sessions.

Dr Antonio Fidalgo, Psychology Course Leader, says the University's online learning community reflects its diverse student population. Around one third of students are based in London, one third elsewhere in the UK and others study from countries including Thailand and Guatemala, as well as across Africa.

If you're looking for even greater flexibility, explore the University's distance learning courses available through Clearing.

Applying through Clearing

Whether you want to commute, live locally or study online, Clearing gives you the opportunity to choose the study option that works best for you.

To apply through Clearing:

1. Check you're eligible and have your results ready
2. Call the UEL Clearing team on 020 7365 6240
3. Apply online using the UEL Clearing application form
4. Speak to the admissions team about the study option that's right for you

Clearing moves quickly, particularly around A-level results day in August, so it's worth getting in touch as early as possible if you're considering applying.