Confirmation and Clearing can be an intense time, for students and advisers. It’s a period filled with expectation, disappointment, relief, panic, and hope, often all at once. As advisers, the role we play in these moments is critical, and supporting students to prepare for different possibilities is key to ensuring they feel confident and calm on the day, whatever the outcome and next steps.
Here are five practical tips to help you support them ahead of the summer holidays.
1. Arm them with what to expect
The best support starts well before results day. Helping students understand what to expect on the day can help them feel reassured and ready to deal with every possibility. Help them understand:
- the different Confirmation decisions they might see in the Hub
- what Clearing is
- who might use Clearing (including high achievers)
- that Clearing is not a 'last resort' or a failure
2. Encourage plan B research
Encourage students to research potential alternative options in advance, even those who feel confident about meeting their offers. Knowing there are alternatives can significantly reduce anxiety if plans change.
Encourage reflection:
- What attracted them to their firm choice?
- What attracted them to their other 4 choices?
- What matters most – subject, career outcome, location, timing, finances?
Clearing is one option, but it’s not the only one. A foundation year, gap year, or a different pathway (such as an apprenticeship) are all potential options.
3. Prepare for university conversations
For many students, contacting universities directly feels hugely intimidating. Help them prepare by:
- practising a short explanation of their situation
- listing key questions in advance – like accommodation, conditions, or academic and wellbeing support on offer
- understanding what flexibility might exist around grades or subjects
4. Give extra support for those who need it most
Clearing can be particularly challenging for students who lack strong support networks, including first‑generation applicants, students with SEND, or those experiencing anxiety.
Don’t wait for these students to ask for help – proactive check‑ins matter.
Where possible, encourage early engagement with university support services so students know help is available from day one. Here are some great resources for you on how to support your students.
5. Share support for families
When you send your students off for the summer holiday, arm parents, carers. and families with all the information, advice, and guidance they’ll need to support their child through what can be an anxious time of waiting for results day.
We’ve curated a range of resources for parents and carers – including articles, videos, and tips – so they can confidently support their child through results day and Clearing.
Good luck and don’t forget the UCAS Adviser Team is here to support you throughout this time, and your toolkit is packed with practical guidance and ready-to-use resources to support you and your students over the coming months.