UCAS Jargon Buster: The Clearing Terms You Need to Know 

If  you’re thinking of applying to Wrexham University during UCAS Clearing, this jargon buster will help you understand the most commonly used terms. Looking for a university place late in the application cycle can feel a bit overwhelming without preparation, so getting to grips with Clearing terminology is essential to making the right choice for your future.  

Terms like "Insurance Choice," "Clearing Plus," and "Clearing ID" will undoubtedly come up during your conversations. To help streamline this process for you, we have we have broken down the essential UCAS Clearing terms you need to know so you can make your next move with total confidence.  

The Essentials: Your Application Basics  

Before entering the Clearing process, you will likely encounter these core terms on your UCAS portal:  

UCAS ID (Personal ID): This is a unique 10-digit number assigned to you when you first create your UCAS account. Think of it as your student passport number, universities will always ask for this to pull up your details quickly.  

Firm Choice:  This is your primary, first-choice university. If you received a conditional offer and you meet the required grades on results day, this place automatically becomes yours.  

Insurance Choice:  Your safety net. This is your second-choice university. If your first choice declines your application but you have met the grades for your insurance, the UCAS system will automatically confirm your place there  

Entering the Process: What is Clearing?  

It’s completely normal to rethink your plans. Whether your results opened up new opportunities, your priorities shifted, or you’ve simply realised your original university choice isn't the right fit anymore, you aren't stuck. This next set of terms will help you navigate your next steps.  

UCAS Clearing:  Clearing is a service run by UCAS that matches universities with spare places on their courses to students who don't currently hold an offer. You will automatically enter Clearing if:  

• You didn’t receive any offers on your initial application.  

• You didn't meet the entry conditions for your Firm or Insurance choices.  

• You applied to university after the main June deadline.  

You can also choose to enter Clearing if you have changed your mind and no longer wish to attend your original Firm or Insurance university. However, never decline your existing offers until you have a new Clearing offer securely in writing from your new university.  

Your Clearing ID Number : Once you become eligible for the process, a brand-new Clearing ID Number will appear on your UCAS Hub welcome page. It is important to note that this is completely different from your 10-digit UCAS Personal ID. When you call up a university to ask for a place, having both numbers written down in front of you will speed up the process significantly.