Clearing Process: A Pathway For International Students?

International students can apply to undergraduate courses at UK universities through Clearing, just like local students. The Clearing process is a system set up by UCAS (the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) to match students without a university place to universities with course vacancies. International students can use Clearing if they have applied after 30 June, do not have any offers, or want to change their course or university. The Clearing process is the same on UCAS Hub for international and UK students, but there are some differences in the documents required and the application timing. International students may need to apply for a student visa, complete an English language exam, and provide test certificates.

International students can apply through Clearing from early July

International students can apply to undergraduate courses at UK universities through Clearing from early July. The Clearing process is the same for international students as it is for UK students, but there are some differences in the documents required and the application start date.

International students, including EU and other overseas students, can use Clearing to apply for courses if they have not received an offer or if they want to change their course or university. Universities use Clearing to advertise vacancies on courses, so students can browse and apply to courses that match their preferences.

There are a few requirements that international students should be aware of when applying through Clearing. Most international students will need to apply for a student visa, which can take around three weeks to process, but times may vary depending on the country and visa service. International students may also need to complete an English language exam and provide test certificates. Additionally, students should be prepared to discuss their academic qualifications, English proficiency, and visa status when contacting universities.

International students need to pay the same £27.50 application fee as other students

International students, including EU and other overseas students, can use Clearing in the same way as UK students. Clearing allows students to apply for courses if they haven't received an offer or if they want to change their mind about where or what they study. Universities use Clearing to advertise course vacancies, so students can browse and apply to courses that match their preferences.

The Clearing process works the same on UCAS Hub for international students as it does for UK students, but there are some differences in the documents needed and when students can start applying. Most international students will need to apply for a student visa, which can take up to three weeks to process, depending on the country and the visa service chosen. International students may also need to complete an English language exam and provide test certificates.

International students are eligible for Clearing if they have:

• Applied through UCAS at an earlier stage (including after 30 June)
• Been rejected by their firm and insurance choices
• Applied to a course before 30 June but weren't made an offer
• Academically qualified for a firm or insurance offer but decided not to take it up
• Paid the application fee

The application fee for Clearing is £27.50, and international students are required to pay the same fee as other students. This fee allows students to apply for a place at a UK university through Clearing and is non-refundable. It is important to note that international students may have additional costs, such as visa fees, English language test fees, and health insurance. Therefore, it is crucial for international students to consider the total cost of applying and studying in the UK, including tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses.

International students will need to apply for a student visa

International students can apply through clearing in the same way as UK students. However, there are some differences in the documents they need and when they can start applying. Most international students will need to apply for a student visa. This visa is required for individuals over 16 or 18 who want to pursue full-time, part-time, or long-term higher education in the UK for longer than six months. The visa costs £490 per applicant and requires proof of financial means to live in the UK and pay for one year's worth of tuition fees. Applicants must also prove their English language proficiency, which can be done through a language test.

The student visa application process can be started up to six months before the course start date for those applying from outside the UK. For those already in the UK, the earliest they can apply is three months before the course start date, and they must submit their application before their existing visa expires. The visa application process typically takes three weeks, but this may vary depending on application numbers and the country from which the applicant is applying. To avoid delays, it is recommended to start the visa application process as early as possible.

Once an international student has accepted an offer from a university, the university will provide a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS), which is required for the visa application. Students can work closely with their chosen university to ensure they have the necessary documentation and can apply for their visa as soon as they receive their CAS. While the visa application is being processed, students may need to complete an English language exam and provide any necessary test certificates.

It is important to note that from January 2025, international students must register with UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and apply for an eVisa. Physical Biometric Residence Permits (BRPs) will no longer be valid from 31 December 2024, so students with a BRP should retain it but also create a UKVI account to access their eVisa and verify their immigration status. The UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) website provides detailed information on the changes to the visa process and eVisa guidance.

International students may need to take an English language test

International students can apply through clearing in the same way as UK students. Clearing allows students to apply for courses if they haven't received an offer or if they want to change their course or university.

However, international students may face additional requirements when applying through clearing, such as the need to demonstrate English language proficiency. While the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP) does not specify English language proficiency requirements for international students in the US, SEVP-certified schools may have their own standards that must be met for admission. These schools often require a certain level of English proficiency as part of their admissions process.

To demonstrate English language proficiency, international students may need to take an English language test. There are several standardized tests available, including:

• Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL)
• International English Language Testing System (IELTS)
• Duolingo English Test
• Cambridge Exams
• Pearson PTE Academic

These tests are designed to evaluate an individual's reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in English. The specific test and score requirements may vary across institutions, so it is important for students to check with their desired university or college. Additionally, some universities may offer English language programs or bridging courses to help international students improve their English proficiency before or during their degree program.

It is worth noting that the need for an English language test may depend on factors such as citizenship, residence, or the language of instruction in previous education. It is always advisable to carefully review the requirements of the specific university or college to determine if an English language test is necessary for clearing applications.

International students can apply directly to universities

International students, including EU and other overseas students, can use Clearing in the same way as UK students. Clearing allows students to apply for courses if they haven't received an offer or if they want to change their minds about where or what they study. Universities use Clearing to advertise any course vacancies, so students can browse and apply to courses that match their preferences.

The Clearing process works the same on UCAS Hub for international students as it does for UK students, but there are some differences in the documents needed and when they can start applying. Most international students will need to apply for a student visa, which can take up to three weeks to process. Students who aren't native English speakers may also need to complete an English language exam and provide the test certificates.

To use Clearing, students must contact universities by phone or email to discuss their academic qualifications, English proficiency, visa status, and academic qualifications. Universities can make informal offers over the phone, and students usually have one or two days to decide. It is recommended that students prepare ahead of time by researching the courses they are interested in.

Frequently asked questions