It’s a common assumption that Clearing is a place for leftover courses – the ones that didn’t get enough takers.
Don’t believe it. Course places can remain available for many reasons, and every year Clearing features thousands of high-ranking courses from top universities.
So, if you’re looking through the Clearing listings this year, don’t be surprised to see law places on offer.
But finding a place is one thing; finding the right place is quite another. We spoke to Georgie Akers, admissions manager at The University of Law, and law student Jessica White, for tips on bagging your ideal law place in Clearing this year.
Start with some research
While Clearing is open, Ucas Search is filled with courses that have available spaces. More are added on A-level results day - but you can check through what's already there while you're still waiting for your results. Doing background research now will be a huge help if you decide to use Clearing later on.
When you find a course that looks of interest, you can dig a little deeper. Virtual open days, where you can attend open days from your home, are a handy starting point.
These events are helpful when you’re looking to get your head around a course, says Georgie. “[You can] get an understanding of what a course covers [and] the teaching style...as well as having the chance to ask any questions.”
Checking the experience of real students is also a smart way to find out what a course is really like. Hunt out comments on social media and The Student Room’s forums, for a start.
Many universities also have student ambassador schemes, which allow you to chat with a student who is already studying the course you’re interested in.
Check what type of law degree it is
Don’t assume all law degrees are the same. At the most basic level, check whether the course is a qualifying law degree. If it is then students are able to immediately move on to the next step of legal studies after graduation (for example to become a barrister or a solicitor). If it’s not a qualifying law degree then you will probably have to do a conversion course.
So dig into what the course offers - then do the same with the university itself. Our article on choosing a university for law will help.
“Different universities have different styles of teaching,” says Georgie. “For The University of Law, our law degrees have a focus on developing practical and transferable skills and future employability.
“The transferable skills developed mean they can also be a good starting point for careers in many other areas including politics or business.”
Think about your personal circumstances
Everyone’s going to have their own list of ‘must-haves’ when it comes to university. Don’t let yourself be rushed into ignoring yours.
“For me, location was key,” says Jessica, a student at The University of Law. “I didn’t want to be too far from home, but I also wanted to move out.
“The course offered was also very important. When I started uni I was looking for law with criminology courses and there aren’t that many universities that offer this course.”
Prepare for the Clearing phone call
To get an offer in Clearing, you’ll need to call university Clearing numbers to discuss your application with them.
Making these calls can be a nervy business, but a little preparation will help a lot. Have all your information to hand, stay calm, and remember that this is your opportunity to ask questions about the course.
You’ll be asked about your grades, but you’ll also have the chance to talk about work experience, volunteering and your passion for the subject. Looking back on your personal statement is a good way to prepare.
Jessica says: “I called the university on the morning of Clearing. I was extremely stressed, but they instantly calmed me down and before long I was enrolled onto LLB Law with no problems.
“I was also speaking to a student who came through Clearing on the phone, which was really reassuring to be able to speak to a student who came through the process themselves.”
Our partnership with The University of Law
The Uni Guide is proud to work with The University of Law as the official partner of our law hub, where current and future law students can find the advice and guidance they need.
The University of Law welcomes intelligent, ambitious students interested in the world around them; people who question systems, procedures and behaviours, and are not afraid to challenge convention.
Study at The University of Law and you’ll be equipped with the professional knowledge you need to excel in your chosen career, and supported by an award-winning employability service to help you get there.
