What to do if you miss the UCAS deadline

Emma Finamore
Last updated 06 Jan 2020

Missed that seemingly essential UCAS deadline? Look no further: we've got your back.

For applicants applying in 2018/2019, the UCAS deadline will fall on 15 January 2o19. We all know deadlines are important but sometimes you can’t help missing them: here’s what to do if you’re one of those unlucky people.

Submit a late UCAS application

Contrary to popular belief, UCAS will process late applications received after 6pm on 15 January – up until the end of June, in fact.

However, there are no guarantees universities will give equal consideration to your application.

You will probably lose out on a place on a competitive course which receives more applications than places available, but don’t worry: other courses may still consider you. Don’t waste any time contacting universities directly to find out if they will accept you.

Try UCAS Clearing

Most people know that UCAS Clearing is a great option for those who don’t meet their conditional offer grades on A-level exam results day. But Clearing is also a way for those who missed the January deadline to get into university.

From July to September, universities across the UK will be taking applications to courses with leftover vacancies.

The basic idea of the Clearing process is that students identify courses with vacancies that interest them, and contact the course providers directly to see if they will offer a place.

Places are awarded on a first come, first served basis, and you can get in early if you’re not waiting on your results. 14,900 students applied directly to Clearing and found a place last year.

We‘ve written a handy How to go through Clearing guide if this is the right option for you.

Try UCAS Extra

The UCAS Extra scheme opens in February for applicants who have either received no offers after applying, or have turned them all down. Running until early July, prospective degree students can look for courses with vacancies and secure an offer before the clearing process opens this summer.

All the courses with vacancies are listed on the UCAS search tool. Students should research courses that interest them and then choose one to add to their application.

Students can make one choice at a time through UCAS Extra, but if they don’t get an offer the first time, they can try again. As you have to pick them one at a time, it’s worth prioritising your choices.

UCAS Extra is available free to anyone who has already paid the full application fee of £23.