Direct answer
For UK A-Level students in 2026, the key date is Thursday 13 August 2026 – results day. On this day, UCAS’s Clearing system will be at its busiest. UCAS Clearing opens on 2 July 2026 and closes on 19 October 2026. If you are using Clearing, be prepared for high demand on results day and consider checking later or using email notifications to avoid the rush. This article focuses on the verified facts: the dates, the peak period, and the official sources you should consult.
Key dates for 2026
- UCAS Clearing opens: 2 July 2026
- A-Level results day: Thursday 13 August 2026
- UCAS Clearing closes: 19 October 2026
These dates are confirmed by UCAS and the exam boards. The results day itself is the peak for Clearing activity, so plan ahead.
Results day: what to expect
On 13 August, UCAS’s system updates admission decisions around 8:00 AM UK time. This can cause heavy traffic. To avoid potential delays, you can check later in the day or opt for email notifications. The official UCAS page advises that popular universities may fill places quickly during the peak, so having a backup plan is wise.
Exam boards: where to find your results
Different exam boards have their own results pages. Here are the official links:
- Cambridge International (CIE): Results
- Pearson Edexcel: Results for students
- OxfordAQA: Results days
Note: These are the official sources. Always check the specific instructions for your qualification and your status (school candidate vs. private candidate). The exam boards may have different procedures, so rely on their official pages for accurate details.
Using Clearing effectively
Clearing is open from 2 July to 19 October. On results day (13 August), the system is busiest. To increase your chances of finding a place, consider the following verified points:
- The UCAS system updates decisions at around 8:00 AM UK time – expect congestion.
- You can check later or use email notifications to avoid the rush.
- Popular courses may fill quickly, so have backup options ready.
Remember: Clearing places are not guaranteed. Always confirm current availability on the UCAS website or with the university directly.
What to do next
After receiving your results, you may need to use Clearing. The official UCAS page provides the most up-to-date information. For any specific course requirements, check with the university. This article does not provide predictions or unverified advice – only the facts above.
FAQ
When does UCAS Clearing open and close in 2026?
Clearing opens on 2 July 2026 and closes on 19 October 2026.
What time does UCAS update decisions on results day?
On A-Level results day (13 August 2026), UCAS updates admission decisions around 8:00 AM UK time. This may cause system congestion.
How can I avoid the rush on results day?
You can check later in the day or use email notifications to avoid the peak traffic. The official UCAS guidance suggests this approach.
Which exam boards have official results pages?
Cambridge International, Pearson Edexcel, and OxfordAQA each have dedicated results pages. Links are provided in the ‘Official sources’ section below.
Are Clearing places guaranteed?
No. Clearing places are subject to availability and change in real time. Always check the UCAS website or contact universities directly for current vacancies.