How to make your Clearing call count: the essential dos and don'ts

Clearing can feel like a bit of a rollercoaster, can't it? A mix of nerves, excitement, and perhaps a touch of uncertainty. But it's also a fantastic opportunity to find the right path for you, leading to places you might never have considered.

The Clearing dos and don'ts: getting prepared

Preparation is key, and it truly makes all the difference. It helps calm those pre-call jitters and ensures you can say what you want to say.

DO your homework, and do it early!

Before you even think about picking up the phone, do some solid research. This is one of our biggest clearing tips. Have a good look at the University of East London's website. Explore our courses, dive into the module details, and get a feel for what studying here is really like. 

Are there specific modules that excite you? What about our facilities, societies, or our fantastic location in East London? Knowing these details shows genuine interest and helps you speak confidently about why you want to study here. It’s not just about finding a course with a space; it's about finding a course and a university that truly resonate with you.

DO have all your important details to hand

Imagine getting through to us, only to frantically search for your UCAS number! It happens, but it adds unnecessary stress. Before you dial, gather everything you need:

• Your UCAS Personal ID and Clearing number (if you have one)
• Your full exam results (A-Levels, BTECs, GCSEs – all of them!). Know your full qualification titles and the grades you achieved
• A pen and paper for jotting down notes. You'll want to remember who you spoke to, what they said, and any next steps
• A list of the courses at UEL you’re interested in, along with their codes

DO find a quiet spot with good signal

This might seem obvious, but on a busy results day, a calm environment can be a lifesaver. You want to be able to hear us clearly and for us to hear you without any distractions or crackly lines. Check your phone's battery too – you don't want it dying mid-conversation!

DON'T leave it until the last minute

Clearing places are offered on a first-come, first-served basis. While we strive to help everyone, popular courses fill up quickly. As soon as you have your results and know you need to go through Clearing, get on the phone!

DON'T let someone else make the call for you (unless absolutely necessary)

We want to hear from you. This is your journey, and we want to connect with you directly. Unless there’s a specific reason, like a disability that makes phone calls difficult, it’s best that you make the call yourself. It shows initiative and a real commitment.

DON'T hang up if the lines are busy

Clearing is a busy period, and sometimes our phone lines might be buzzing. Please be patient! We have a dedicated team ready to help, and we promise to get to you as quickly as possible. Don't let a busy signal deter you – your place might be just around the corner.

During the call: making it count

Now you’re prepared, it’s time for the actual call. This is where your personality can really shine through.

DO be polite, positive, and enthusiastic

This is probably one of the most vital Clearing tips. The person on the other end of the line is there to help you, and they'll respond well to a positive, polite attitude. Show your passion for the subject and the university. Even if you're feeling a bit stressed, try to keep your tone calm and upbeat. 

DO explain why you're interested in the course and UEL

This is your chance to link your research to your aspirations. Mentioning specific modules, aspects of our campus, or our commitment to careers-first education shows you've genuinely considered UEL as your next step. 

DO be honest and concise

If you didn't quite get the grades you expected, it's okay to explain why, but don't dwell on it. We appreciate clear, direct communication.

DO ask questions

This is a two-way street. You’re also finding out if UEL is the right fit for you. Don't be afraid to ask about accommodation, student support, careers services, or anything else that's important to you. It shows you're engaged and thinking about your future. 

DON'T exaggerate 

It’s always best to be truthful about your grades and your intentions. Our admissions team are experts; they've spoken to thousands of students, and honesty is always the best policy.

After the call: what next?

You’ve had the chat, perhaps even received an informal offer – brilliant! But the process isn't quite over yet.

DO write down all the details of any offer

If you receive a verbal offer, make sure you write down the course name, the offer conditions, and any reference numbers. Ask how long the offer is valid for and what the next steps are.

DO follow up promptly

If you're asked to do something, like email your results or complete an online form, do it as quickly as possible. This shows you're keen and organised.

DO consider your options carefully

You might get offers from a few different universities. Don't feel pressured to accept the first one you get. Take a moment, weigh up your choices, and revisit your research on each institution. This is a big decision for your future, so make sure it's the right one for you.

DON'T forget to officially accept your offer through UCAS

Once you've decided on UEL (we hope!), you'll need to formally accept our offer through your UCAS Hub. This is a crucial step to secure your place. We'll send you an email with clear instructions on how to do this.

Clearing at the University of East London is a smooth, supportive process. It's about finding your place, discovering new passions, and starting your university journey with confidence. By keeping these Clearing dos and don'ts in mind, you'll be well on your way to making your Clearing call count and joining the UEL family. We can't wait to hear from you!