The primary reason students enter clearing is either because they didn't meet the grade requirements of either their first or insurance choice, their application was late or they were not offered places by any of their chosen universities. You can enter the clearing process if:

• You hold no offers and have not withdrawn from the UCAS scheme
• Your offers have not been confirmed because you haven't met the conditions required
• You decline or do not reply to an offer of a different course

If you are eligible for clearing you will automatically be sent a Clearing Entry Form (CEF) Keep this with you.

This is the basic information that sixth forms and colleges should already have made clear. What follows is our advice on how best to deal with the clearing process.

There are three basic rules for surviving and profiting from the clearing process. Don't panic, be prepared and take action.

There are literally thousands of clearing places available at a massive range of institutions. The chances of finding something you like at somewhere you like are pretty good. Also bear in mind that it's not just weaker institutions that offer clearing places. Top universities often use the clearing process to fill courses. Remember also that once you are within the framework of an institution it is often possible to change courses.

On results day have everything to hand. Try to have access to a phone, fax machine and a computer with internet access. Get a selection of daily broadsheet newspapers with clearing listings, these are also available on BBC 2 Ceefax. Prepare a short CV type document about yourself and why you feel you would be an asset to the university. You should sell yourself and any unusual or noticeable way of doing so will be remembered and often rewarded. Have all the numbers you need and all your personal details and data on one sheet of paper for easy reference.

More info on Clearing