International Clearing in the UK 2025: Complete guide for international students
International Clearing in the UK is one of the fastest ways for international students to secure a place at a UK university in August - even if they haven’t applied before. For September 2025 entry, Clearing can also unlock last-minute UK university scholarships and still give you time to get your UK student visa.
In this guide, you’ll learn:
What International Clearing is and how it works in 2025
Key dates and deadlines for international students
Which scholarships are still open in August/September 2025
Visa timelines after Clearing
Tips for securing your place quickly
What is International Clearing in the UK?
Clearing is a UK university admissions process that takes place after A-level results are released (Thursday 14 August 2025). UK universities publish lists of undergraduate courses that still have spaces. UK universities publish a list of undergraduate courses with available spaces. If the course you want still has places, you can apply directly to the university, often without going through the full UCAS process. (UCAS is the central system for applying to UK university undergraduate courses).
International Clearing works in a similar way, but with extra considerations - such as Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) letters and UK student visa processing times.
Through International Clearing, you can:
Apply to UK universities even if you haven’t applied before.
Access courses at universities you might not have considered.
Take advantage of lowered entry requirements at some institutions.
Find scholarships for international students that are still available in August.
International Clearing timeline for September 2025 entry
14 August 2025 – UK A-level results day, Clearing officially opens.
14–15 August – Many Clearing spaces and scholarships are filled quickly.
Late August – Some universities may still have places and funding available, but options narrow.
Early September – Final visa applications submitted for September start dates.
Tip: If you see a course you like, contact the university immediately — spaces for international students are limited.
UK scholarships still open during International Clearing 2025
Research by Scholarship Scanner has found:
6 UK universities are still offering 21 scholarships worth up to £8,000.
Deadlines fall between mid-August and early September 2025.
Some scholarships are open to students applying through International Clearing.
🎯 Recommended read: UK Universities With Scholarships Still Open for International Students (September 2025)
Can you still get a UK student visa after Clearing?
Yes — but you must act quickly.
Step 1: Receive a CAS (Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies) from your university.
Step 2: Apply for your UK student visa immediately.
Standard service: Usually 3 weeks
Priority service: Faster, but costs extra and is not available everywhere
Super-priority service: 1 working day, but limited availability
🔗 Check visa processing times and availability: UKVI – Faster Decision Visa Services
Top tips for international students applying through Clearing
Check eligibility – Some scholarships are worldwide, others are region-specific.
Apply early – Places and scholarships can close before their published deadlines.
Prepare documents in advance – Transcripts, personal statement, references.
Be flexible – A university you hadn’t considered might have a strong course and funding.
Consider course alternatives – Related subjects may have more availability.
FAQs on International Clearing for 2025
1. When does Clearing start for international students in 2025?
14 August 2025, on A-level results day.
2. Can I apply without UCAS?
Yes, many universities accept direct applications from international students in Clearing.
3. Are there scholarships for Clearing applicants?
Yes — some UK universities still have international scholarships available in August/September.
4. Can I still get my visa in time?
Yes, if you apply immediately and use priority/super-priority services if available.