A level results: How to support your child through clearing

Many students will have anxieties surrounding their results, with their next step being dependent on their grades.

Due to university's competitive nature, some students may not get into their institution of choice due to their awarded grades.

However, UCAS clearing is students’ opportunity to place a late application for open university courses.

This option is available for those who did not achieve the grades necessary for their original university choice, and also those who did not receive any offers in the first place.

In 2023, students who achieved their spot at university through UCAS clearing increased by 15 per cent, rising from 33,280 students to 38,140.

Exam results day is stressful for both students and parents/guardians.

Alison Pike, head of careers and higher education guidance at Sidcot Independent School in Somerset, has shared her thoughts and ideas on how parents/guardians can help and support their children throughout this stressful time.

Alison explains how clearing can be an “overwhelming experience”.

Due to missing out on their desired university, many students may be anxious to know what their next steps are.

This can create a stressful environment for parents, not knowing how to help or support their child.

As a result, Alison provided some useful steps for parents to follow on results day.

1. Research the clearing process: Researching and understanding the UCAS clearing process will help relieve stress from your children. Knowing what to expect and the necessary steps will allow your child to relax and not feel overwhelmed by the process. The UCAS website has detailed a guide explaining all the details and information needed. “Familiarising yourself with the process can reduce anxieties” for all parties involved.
2. Stay calm and reassure them: Allow your child to express their feelings. They may feel disappointed or upset with their results, so make sure to reassure them whilst also validating their feelings.
3. Start with easy steps: Results day not going the way your child expected can be scary. They may feel overwhelmed with having to find a new course and university, and this is normal. Help them with researching their options and looking back over their five original choices. Have contact details for universities they like the look of on standby, with useful questions ready as well. Let your child know that clearing is a good step towards finding their university choice.
4. Support their decision-making process: Clearing may make your child feel pressured to make fast choices in fear of missing out. Try to encourage them to relax and make their decisions based off of time and facts, rather than rushing the process and regretting their choice later. Try making a pros and cons list and take into account factors such as student satisfaction and course details in order to make a informed decision.
5. Keep them on track: Make sure that they keep focused and don’t delay their choice due to anxieties. Although feeling stressed is normal, you don’t want your child to miss out on great opportunities from these feelings. Write down dates and deadlines for their applications and reminding them of these will in turn relieve their pressure.
6. Arrange a tour: Most universities provide tours for future students in order to help them make their decision. These are frequently run by current students, allowing you see what it’s like for students as well. Many universities also provide virtual tours if you cannot travel.
7. Provide guidance on finance and accommodation: If your child gets a spot through clearing, you must alert previous student finance applications or scholarships of this change. Help with forms and any administration processes that may confuse your child. Also looking at the available accommodation options with them will help them feel settled and conformable with where they will be living.
8. Explore different routes: The clearing process may help your child choose a new option that is better suited to their next step. Clearing may not be the best choice for them and it is good to remind your child that there are many different options. They may want to re-sit or even take a gap year. Keeping in touch with a higher education advisor is always a good idea and may help relieve stresses for both child and parent.