Confirmation and Clearing: What you need to know

As we approach the busiest time in the admissions calendar, it's important for staff to have a clear understanding of the Confirmation and Clearing processes. These two key activities ensure we meet our student intake targets and support prospective students in securing their place at Manchester.

What is Confirmation? 

Confirmation is the process where we confirm if an applicant has met the conditions of their offer. While this activity happens throughout the year, the main period starts in July. This is when we receive large batches of exam results, beginning with the International Baccalaureate (IB) in early July, followed by BTECs, Access to HE, and Scottish qualifications in August. 

The most significant influx comes from A-Level results, which we receive on the Friday before A-Level Results Day in mid-August. Our admissions team works over the weekend to process these results, using strategies agreed upon by the Student Recruitment Intake Strategy Group to finalise as many decisions as possible. 

What is Clearing? 

Clearing is a UCAS process that runs from 5 July to late October, helping students who haven’t secured a university place or want to change their choice. The University of Manchester participates actively in Clearing, particularly on Results Day when the volume of calls peaks. 

We accept some applications during "early Clearing" (before Results Day), primarily from students who have already received their results. However, the main Clearing period starts on Results Day, with applicants contacting universities to secure a place. From 1pm on Results Day, applicants submit their Clearing applications to confirm their place. 

The role of confirmation and clearing hotlines 

On Results Day, we operate two main hotlines: one for Confirmation and another for Clearing. The Confirmation line assists existing offer holders, while the Clearing line handles inquiries from potential applicants. Both lines are critical in managing the influx of inquiries and ensuring a smooth process for both staff and students. 

The hotlines are managed by the DSE Admissions Team and staffed by volunteers across the University. Additionally, we provide specialised support through dedicated hotlines for teachers, advisors, and participants in our widening participation (WP) schemes. 

The central hotlines run alongside activity taking place in Schools and Faculties and usually sees upwards of 10,000 calls over the Clearing period; 6,000 of these alone being answered on results day. 

Where to direct calls 

If you receive calls or enquiries from prospective applicants, please ask them to redial using the following numbers:  

• 0161 804 0050 (confirmation of their place) 

• 0161 672 8770 (Clearing enquiries) 

The call centre hours are: 

• Thursday, 15 August (8am-5pm) 

• Friday, 16 August (9am-5pm) 

• Monday, 19 August (9am-5pm) 

Clearing callers should also be directed to the Clearing website, which shows an up-to-date list of vacancies.

Listings will be live on the evening of Wednesday, 14 August.