A Guide to Clearing: Your Next Step Starts Here
Thinking about university but not quite sure what to do next?
Maybe your results weren't what you expected. Perhaps you've changed your mind about where you want to study, or you've only recently decided that higher education is the right path for you. You might even be returning to education after a few years away.
Whatever your situation, you're not alone – and we're here to help.
Every year, people of all ages use Clearing to find the right university-level course. At East Sussex College, our Higher Education team will guide you through the process, answer your questions and help you find the option that's right for you.
What is Clearing?
Clearing is a way of matching students with available places on higher education courses.
You might use Clearing if you:
- Haven't applied for higher education yet
- Didn't get the offers or grades you were hoping for
- Have changed your mind about where or what you'd like to study
- Have only recently decided that you'd like to go to university
Clearing isn't a second choice. For many people, it's simply another route to finding a course that's a better fit for them.
If you're interested in studying with us, it's always worth getting in touch. Even if you're unsure whether you meet the entry requirements, we'll be happy to talk through your options and explain what's available.
Why choose East Sussex College?
Choosing where to study is about more than just the course.
At East Sussex College, you'll benefit from the quality of higher education alongside the personalised support our college is known for.
When you study with us, you can expect:
- Smaller class sizes with dedicated tutor support
- Industry-focused learning and practical experience
- Excellent value for money
- Modern facilities and specialist equipment
- The opportunity to study closer to home and reduce living costs
- A friendly, welcoming learning environment where you'll be known as an individual
We offer university-level qualifications across a wide range of subject areas, including business, computing, engineering, health and social care, performing arts, counselling, creative industries and teacher education. Whether you're looking for an HNC, HND, Foundation Degree, Bachelor's Degree or teacher training qualification, there's something for everyone.
When should I apply?
Clearing opened at the beginning of July and continues into the autumn, but many popular courses fill well before the deadline.
If you're thinking about studying this year, we'd recommend getting in touch as soon as possible. The earlier you contact us, the more options are likely to be available.
Applying through Clearing
There are two ways you may be able to apply.
Through UCAS
If you're applying to more than one university or college, UCAS is usually the best route. If you'd like to study at East Sussex College through UCAS Clearing, the first step is to contact our Higher Education team. We'll check whether we have places available, talk through your qualifications and answer any questions you may have.
If we can offer you a place, we'll explain exactly what you need to do next in UCAS and guide you through the process.
Apply directly to East Sussex College (This is easier and FREE!)
If you've already decided that East Sussex College is the right choice for you, you may be able to apply directly to us instead.
Applying directly is free and often a quicker, simpler option if you already know where you'd like to study.
We'll let you know exactly what information we need, which typically includes:
- A completed application form
- A personal statement
- A reference
Our team will support you throughout, so you'll always know what happens next.
What qualifications do I need?
Entry requirements vary depending on the course you're applying for.
As a guide:
- Degrees and Foundation Degrees usually require around 64 UCAS points
- HNCs and HNDs usually require around 48 UCAS points
However, qualifications aren't the only thing we look at.
If you're returning to education or have relevant work or life experience, we'd still encourage you to get in touch. We consider every application individually and are always happy to discuss your circumstances.
What happens after I apply?
Some courses may ask you to attend an interview or complete a short interview task.
This helps us get to know you better and gives you the chance to ask questions about the course and your future studies.
Throughout the process, our Higher Education team will keep you informed and explain everything you need to know.
We're here to help
Applying through Clearing can feel like a big decision, whether you're leaving school this summer or returning to education after several years.
The important thing to remember is that you don't have to figure it out on your own.
If you're interested in studying at East Sussex College, leave your details on our Clearing page and one of our expert team will contact you to talk through your options, answer questions and help you apply.
Sometimes all it takes is a quick conversation to make everything feel much clearer.
We'd love to hear from you.