Kent's Clearing guide for parents and carers

1. Get to know the process 

The first thing you can do to help your child during the Clearing process is to have a good grasp of it yourself. Familiarise yourself with the key dates, requirements and steps of the process and get to know the details that your child will be asked to provide when calling the Clearing hotline or universities. This way, you can help them through each stage of Clearing. 

2. Help them prepare 

Clearing moves at a fast pace, so being able to quickly apply for their preferred course will be key to your child’s Clearing success. Most universities will publish their course vacancies on 5 July 2024, giving your child plenty of time to research and decide which courses they like the look of. Encourage them to get into the details such as module content, methods of assessment, graduate opportunities and sandwich years.  

They should look at the student experience at each university too. What is the accommodation like? Are there opportunities for part-time work? Which societies do they like the sound of? 

3. Support with their Clearing admin 

Before your child starts calling university hotlines, help them to gather some essential info. They’ll need their UCAS Personal ID, details of their qualifications (including GCSE and equivalent results), and examination bodies. We've put together a list of these things to get you ready for results day. Download the checklist before results day to help you get organised. 

You may also need to encourage your child to make phone calls. Although you can’t call on their behalf, you can help them prepare for possible questions, read and remind them of what’s included in their personal statement and stay with them for moral support as they make those calls.

4. Find out where to get extra help

Even with the help you’re giving them, your child may still need to speak to someone who can provide expert advice. Get to know the support services that are available, such as careers advisers at your child’s current school or college, and advisers at Kent.    

5. Keep them going 

Clearing can still be overwhelming, even if your child has done everything they can to prepare. To help maintain their momentum, be on hand to provide meals and snacks and encourage them to take regular breaks. They might not want to move an inch from their computer for fear of missing out, but it’s important to have time away from their screen. Giving them a quiet space free from distractions can be helpful too.

6. Give them space to absorb the results 

Waiting for results can be nerve-wracking. On the day, you may want to accompany them to pick up their results or be close by. But depending on your child, they may also just want their own space. As it can be an overwhelming day, try to find ways to keep them calm and remind them that you’re there to support them however you can. They may need help making lists of numbers to call or may just need someone to talk through their options and ideas with.  

7. Visit the University

Our campus tours are open to everyone, whether you're just beginning to look at universities, or you've already applied to Kent.  We tailor our tours for your needs and will be able to answer any queries you have about your Clearing application. Book your campus tour online.