Declining your firm place

Declining your firm place

Changing your mind isn’t a setback, it’s how you find where you truly belong.

It's ok to change your mind.

We understand that plans change and what and where you may have wanted to study previously may now not be right for you.

Clearing isn’t a "backup plan”, it’s just another route to university. Thousands of students use it every year to find courses that suit them better, whether that’s a different course or a different university.

Universities offering places through Clearing are actively looking for students like you, people who are motivated, considered and ready to make a more informed choice.

How to decline your first choice on UCAS in Clearing.

If you're holding a firm unconditional place and have changed your mind about your firm choice, you can simply decline your place using the ‘Decline your place’ option in your UCAS application.

If you decline your firm place, you will lose your insurance place and enter Clearing, where you can apply to universities or colleges with vacancies. If you’re considering going to your insurance choice instead, it’s important to contact them first to check whether they would be willing to accept you before you decline your firm place.

From 5 July, if you’re holding a firm unconditional place, you can release yourself into Clearing by selecting ‘Decline your place’ in your UCAS application.
Only use this option if you’re certain you no longer want to take up your place at your firm choice. If you’re unsure, it’s a good idea to speak with your university or college, or an adviser at your school or centre, to talk through your options.
If you’d like to stay at the same university or college but change your course, you should contact them directly first. Using the 'Decline your place' button in your application will cancel your place, along with any arrangements for accommodation or scholarships.
If you select the 'Decline your place' button and complete the steps, your place will be declined, your contract with the university or college will be cancelled, and you’ll lose your place, so only use this option if you’re certain you no longer want it.

Can I decline my place if it is still 'conditional firm'?

If you’d like to apply elsewhere but your firm place is still conditional:

1- Take a look at your application for any updates on why your offer is still pending — your university or college might be waiting for further information, such as your Level 3 (or equivalent) results.

2- Keep an eye out for any direct updates from your university or college explaining your situation. If you haven’t heard anything, it’s worth contacting them to check, they may still be considering your place, even if you didn’t meet the required grades.

3- Still thinking of applying elsewhere? If you know why your application is still pending and want to consider other options, you can contact UCAS between 13:00 (UK time) on 14 August and 3 September to request release into Clearing. Just be aware that this means giving up both your firm and insurance choices, so only do this if you’re sure you no longer want either.