Clearing

About Clearing

Student works on model box design

UCAS Clearing is an extremely popular way of securing a place at university, by matching students that want a university place to universities with unfilled places.

You are able to use Clearing if you:

  • Didn’t get into your firm (CF) or insurance (CI) choice universities
  • Didn’t get any offers when you first applied
  • Are applying after 30 June
  • Don’t want the places you’ve been offered and self-release into Clearing
  • Were unsure about university during the first round of applications and didn’t apply
  • Got better grades than predicted – you may be able to get a place on a different course at a university that asks for higher grades through UCAS Clearing and Adjustment
  • Clearing can also be useful if you’ve changed your mind about the course you originally applied for and want to go for a different one.

Clearing opens in early July each year.

Interested in Acting?
Our BA (Hons) Acting will not be available to apply to through Clearing. You may wish to consider continuing your training as an actor by taking a gap year and undertaking a non-degree level programme like Central’s Gap Year Acting Diploma (September 2024 start) or Acting Diploma (January 2025 start) or Online Acting Diploma (January 2025 start). These courses provide a similar style of training to our degree programmes, and many students have used these as preparation before re-applying to degree level actor training programmes. 

Clearing FAQs

  • How do I apply through Clearing?

    You apply through Clearing via UCAS. We would suggest the following steps:

    1. Find a course that is right for you – courses that you can apply to at Central will be available on this page
    2. Speak to the institution – you can fill out the form that will be available on this page or call our Clearing hotline which will also be available above. We can set up an interview between you and the course to ascertain whether you would be suitable for the course and to provide you with the peace of mind that we will make you an offer. Please note you will need to provide your Clearing Number (available in Track) and Personal ID so we can look up your application.
    3. You can then add your Clearing choice through UCAS in Track. This is a simple process:
      1. Click ‘Add Clearing choice’, and fill in the course details by the date the university/college gave you on the phone.
      2. This counts as you definitely accepting the offer, so if they confirm, it’ll show as an acceptance on your ‘Choices’ page in Track.
      3. You can only add one choice at a time, but if the university/college doesn’t confirm your place, you’ll be able to add another.

  • Will any bursaries and scholarships be available?

    We do run a second round of bursary and scholarship applications in late August, so we would encourage you to apply early in Clearing to secure your place, making you eligible. 

    Find out more about scholarships, bursaries and awards.

  • Why should I consider an institution like Central?

    • Central is known internationally as a leader in the training of the next generation of theatre makers. Our graduates are working across the globe, with many recognised through award nominations and successes.
    • Our London campus houses industry standard facilities including our recent £16.7 million North Block which added a new courtyard theatre, sound stage and movement studio to name just a few of the resources available for our students to experiment with and enjoy. You can view our virtual tour of our facilities.
    • Students receive intensive teaching and hands-on practical experience supported by leading academics, technical support and visiting professionals from industry on a regular basis
    • Many of our courses have placements opportunities available for students to receive practical experience of working in the industry
    • Our unique courses provide you with specialist skills in your chosen area whilst also providing unparalleled levels of collaboration with other courses, giving added experience to prepare you for working in industry.Find out more about why you should choose Central.