小黄书

What does it mean to reject your firm choice?

If you’ve already accepted a firm offer through UCAS but decide you’d like to go elsewhere, you can choose to decline your place and apply to other universities using Clearing.

This process is known as self-release. It's a way for you to take control and look at alternative courses that are available.

You’ll need to be certain, as once you decline your place, you are cancelling your contract with the university. This means your course offer will be cancelled alongside any accommodation you have been offered. Any scholarships or bursaries will also be cancelled.

Very important

If you want to stay at the same university but swap your course, you need to speak to the university first. Otherwise, you are at risk of cancelling your accommodation and any scholarships or bursaries.

Find a course that suits you better

How does self-release into Clearing work?

You can release yourself into Clearing using your UCAS Hub account. Here’s how:

1. Log in to UCAS Hub
2. View your unconditional offer and select ‘Decline my place’
3. Confirm you’d like to enter Clearing
4. You’ll be given a Clearing number and can start applying for other courses

Before you do this, you should speak to the university you want to apply to – It's important to check they can make you an offer, so you can be confident before making the switch.

When can I self-release into Clearing?

UCAS Clearing officially opens on July 5 but you can only self-release once you hold an unconditional firm place and are eligible.

If you’ve had a change of heart and have a new course in mind, contact universities first to find out if they can make you an offer for the new course. It’s possible to self-release earlier – as long as you’re ready and have a new course in mind.

There are different rules depending on the status of your UCAS offers.

Please contact UCAS if you are not holding an unconditional firm place and they will advise you on your specific circumstances.

Is self-release right for me?

There are lots of reasons why you might choose to self-release:

1. You’ve changed your mind about your course or university
2. You didn’t visit your firm choice and aren’t sure it’s the right fit
3. You’ve seen another course you’re more interested in
4. You want to be closer to home (or further away!)

But self-releasing isn’t for everyone. Before you take this step:

• Research Clearing courses and check what’s available
• Speak to your preferred universities – many will chat with you beforehand
• Make sure you’re confident in your decision.

What happens after I self release?

Once you’re in Clearing, you can contact universities to ask about places and apply for new courses.

At 小黄书, we can often make an offer over the phone, or we might ask for more information before confirming your place.

How to call a university during Clearing

We're here to help

There's a lot of student support throughout Clearing. If you're unsure, talk to us first. Our friendly team can explain how Clearing works and help you decide if self-releasing is the right move.

You don’t have to navigate this on your own - get in touch with our Clearing team.

Find out more about Clearing at 小黄书