International Clearing UK: A complete guide for international students (Updated for 2026)

If you thought you'd missed your chance to study in the UK this year, don't panic.

Every summer, thousands of university places become available through UCAS Clearing, including places for international students. While many people think Clearing is only for UK applicants, international students can also use it to secure a place at a UK university, provided they meet the entry requirements and can complete the admissions and visa process in time.

This guide explains everything international students need to know about UK Clearing in 2026, including who can apply, how the process works, whether scholarships are available and how to maximise your chances of receiving an offer.

What is UCAS Clearing?

UCAS Clearing is the UK's system for matching universities with students who still need a place after the main application cycle.

Universities use Clearing to fill vacancies on courses where places remain available. For international students, it can be an excellent opportunity to apply to UK universities later in the admissions cycle, particularly if you:

  • Missed the main UCAS deadline

  • Have only recently decided to study in the UK

  • Achieved better exam results than expected

  • Didn't receive the offers you hoped for

  • Want to change your university or course

Many universities actively recruit international students through Clearing every year.

Can international students apply through Clearing?

Yes.

International students are eligible to use UCAS Clearing, although the application process may differ slightly depending on the university.

Some universities accept applications directly through their international admissions teams, while others encourage students to use UCAS Clearing in the same way as UK applicants.

The key difference is timing.

International students also need enough time to:

  • receive an offer

  • meet any academic conditions

  • obtain a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)

  • apply for a Student visa

  • arrange accommodation

  • travel to the UK before teaching begins

Because of these additional steps, universities may close international applications before UK Clearing officially ends.

Who can use Clearing?

You may be eligible if you:

  • are applying after 30 June

  • have not received any offers

  • declined your offers

  • did not meet the conditions of your offers

  • are applying for the first time this year

If you are unsure about your eligibility, contact the university directly. Admissions teams can usually advise quickly.

Which UK universities accept international students through Clearing?

Many UK universities recruit international students through Clearing, although the courses available vary each year.

Places are often available at:

  • Russell Group universities

  • Modern universities

  • Specialist institutions

  • Universities across England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland

Availability depends on demand, course capacity and visa timelines, so it is important to apply as early as possible.

How does Clearing work for international students?

The process is straightforward.

Step 1: Research universities

Identify universities offering courses that match your qualifications and career goals.

Check:

  • entry requirements

  • tuition fees

  • scholarship opportunities

  • accommodation availability

  • graduate outcomes

Step 2: Contact universities

Many universities operate dedicated Clearing hotlines and international admissions teams during the summer.

Have the following information ready:

  • qualifications and grades

  • English language test results

  • passport details

  • UCAS Personal ID (if applicable)

Step 3: Receive an offer

If the university is satisfied that you meet the entry requirements, they may make you an offer.

Some offers are made immediately during a phone call.

Step 4: Accept your place

Once you accept your offer, the university will begin preparing your CAS so you can apply for your Student visa.

Can international students get scholarships through Clearing?

Yes.

This is one of the biggest misconceptions about Clearing.

Many UK universities continue to offer scholarships to international students applying through Clearing.

These may include:

  • automatic merit scholarships

  • country-specific scholarships

  • subject scholarships

  • early payment discounts

However, scholarship deadlines may be earlier than the final Clearing deadline, so always check funding opportunities before accepting an offer.

Scholarship Scanner tip:Search for scholarships before you commit to a university. Even a scholarship worth £3,000 to £5,000 can make a significant difference to the overall cost of studying in the UK.

How to maximise your chances during Clearing

The strongest applicants usually prepare before results day.

You should:

  • shortlist several universities

  • have digital copies of your documents ready

  • know your English language test scores

  • research scholarships in advance

  • prepare questions for admissions staff

  • respond quickly to offers

Students who act early generally have more course choices than those who wait until late August or September.

Is it too late to apply if you missed September?

Not necessarily.

If you cannot secure a place through Clearing, many universities also recruit international students for the January intake.

Depending on your subject, January entry can provide another excellent opportunity to begin your studies without waiting an entire year.

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Frequently asked questions
Quick answers to the questions international students ask most often.

Is Clearing only for UK students?

No. International students can also apply through Clearing.

Can I apply directly to universities instead of UCAS?

Some universities allow international applicants to apply directly through their admissions teams, particularly later in the admissions cycle.

Can I get accommodation through Clearing?

Usually yes, although accommodation options may be more limited later in the summer.

Can postgraduate students use Clearing?

UCAS Clearing is primarily for undergraduate applicants. However, many universities continue accepting postgraduate applications directly throughout the summer.

Can I still receive a scholarship?

Yes. Many universities continue offering scholarships during Clearing, although eligibility and deadlines vary.

Final thoughts

Every year, thousands of international students successfully secure places at UK universities through Clearing.

If you prepare early, research your options carefully and apply promptly, Clearing can provide an excellent route into higher education in the UK.

Don't assume you've missed your opportunity. There are often more courses, scholarships and funding opportunities available than students realise.

Before making your final decision, compare scholarships across multiple universities to ensure you are not missing valuable financial support.