10 August 2026
This can be a stressful time for students, so here is a guide to clearing away the noise and making the process as easy as possible
The University of Sunderland is preparing to welcome hundreds of new students as they take their first step on the road to career success.
Clearing opened on July 2 but the University’s Confirmation and Clearing call centre for students who have received their Level 3 qualification results and are searching for a place at the University, or want their place confirmed, will be open at 8am on Thursday 13 August.
Clearing is for those applicants who do not hold any offers, or who might not have achieved the grades they need to get into their first-choice university. It matches them to university places that are yet to be filled.
It also assists in finding places for students who might have performed better than they had originally thought.
Sir David Bell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Sunderland, said: "Clearing is an opportunity for students to consider or reconsider their options in the light of their examination results. There are skilled and trained people here at the University who will be on hand to guide and assist prospective students make the right decision about their course of study."
This can be a stressful time for students, so here is a guide to clearing away the noise and making the process as easy as possible.
Clearing is for anyone in the following positions:
· You haven't applied for university yet, but want to start a course in September
· You haven’t previously considered studying with the University of Sunderland, but want to join in September
· You’ve applied for university, but not met the conditions of your firm or insurance choice (i.e. you aren’t holding any offers for a place at a university or college)
· You've changed your mind about the offer you're holding at another university or college and want to study in Sunderland instead
Tips for Clearing
1. Prepare for your results day
The process can be daunting but can be made easier with a little preparation. In the lead up to Level 3 results’ day, research institutions and courses you may like to study if you don’t manage to get on your desired course.
Have a list of backup options ready in case the courses you have researched are full once you receive your results.
Have your results, qualifications, and UCAS number ready when you start calling universities looking for places.
Universities use tariff points and finding out how many tariff points your results equate to will help make the process run smoother. You can find out how many tariff points you have here.
2. Stay cool
If you don’t get the results that you hoped for, there are still plenty of opportunities to go to university. Although you might not have got your preferred choice of course or university, Clearing gives you an alternative path into higher education.
Remember – be kind to yourself and don’t compare yourself to others.
3. Ring the clearing line
The University of Sunderland’s Clearing line (0191 515 3000) opens at 8am on results day which is Thursday 13 August).
University staff will be there to talk you through the process and confirm if you are eligible for the course you want to apply for, offer advice for your next steps and arrange for you to speak to an academic about your chosen course.
The University goes above and beyond to make sure that it is a positive experience so staff are here to answer any questions and address any concerns you may have.
4. Attend the Open Day
If you have not visited the University of Sunderland and applied through Clearing, an Open Day will be taking place on Saturday 15 August. You will have the opportunity to speak to academics and professional services staff, tour the campus, and visit student accommodation. You can sign up here.