Direct answer
For the 2026 cycle, UCAS Clearing opens on 2 July 2026 and closes on 19 October 2026. The A-Level results day is Thursday, 13 August 2026 – this is the peak period for Clearing, with many students seeking places. On results day, UCAS updates admission decisions around 8:00 AM UK time (which is 3:00 PM Beijing time). Because the system may be congested at that time, you can check your results later in the day or use email notifications. During the peak, popular courses fill quickly, so it is advisable to have backup options ready.
Key dates and times
The following dates are confirmed by official sources:
- UCAS Clearing opens: 2 July 2026
- UCAS Clearing closes: 19 October 2026
- A-Level results day: 13 August 2026 (Thursday)
- UCAS decisions update: around 8:00 AM UK time (3:00 PM Beijing time) on results day
These dates are accurate as of the information provided. Always check the official UCAS website for the latest updates, as times and dates may be subject to change.
Results day: what to expect
On 13 August 2026, the A-Level results are released. This is also the day when UCAS updates your application status with any offers or decisions. The update happens around 8:00 AM UK time (3:00 PM Beijing time). Due to high traffic, the UCAS system may be slow or temporarily unavailable. To avoid frustration, you can:
- Wait a few hours after the initial update time
- Use email notifications if you have set them up
- Check the UCAS Hub later in the day
It is important to note that Clearing vacancies change in real time. The availability of courses is not static, so you should rely on the live UCAS system for the most current information.
Clearing process and eligibility
Clearing is open from 2 July to 19 October 2026. It is designed for applicants who:
- Have not received any offers
- Did not meet the conditions of their offers
- Have declined their firm or insurance choice
- Are applying after the main deadline
To use Clearing, you must search for vacancies on the UCAS Hub, contact universities directly to discuss your application, and if you receive an informal offer, add the course as your Clearing choice in UCAS. This process is standard but always follow the guidance on the official UCAS website.
Checking results: exam boards
Different exam boards have their own methods for releasing results. The following are the official sources for results information:
- Cambridge International (for IGCSE and A-Level): results are available through their results service. Check their official page for details.
- Pearson Edexcel: results are available through their student results service.
- AQA: results are released on results days, and you can access them via their results service.
Note that the process may differ for school candidates versus private candidates. Always refer to the official exam board websites for the exact procedure. IGCSE results are not part of the UCAS application process directly, but they may be used by some universities to assess language or academic background.
Practical tips for results day
Given the high demand on results day, here are some practical tips based on the provided facts:
- Check results later: The system is busiest right after 8:00 AM UK time. Waiting a few hours can reduce stress.
- Use email notifications: If available, this can help you avoid refreshing the page repeatedly.
- Prepare backup options: Since popular courses fill quickly, have alternative courses or universities in mind.
- Monitor Clearing vacancies: The list of available courses changes frequently, so check the UCAS Hub regularly.
Remember, these are general tips; the exact steps may vary. Always follow the instructions on the official UCAS and exam board websites.
FAQ
When is the A-Level results day in 2026?
The A-Level results day is Thursday, 13 August 2026. On this day, UCAS updates admission decisions around 8:00 AM UK time (3:00 PM Beijing time).
What are the opening and closing dates for UCAS Clearing 2026?
UCAS Clearing opens on 2 July 2026 and closes on 19 October 2026.
How can I check my results on results day?
You can check your results through your exam board’s official results service. For Cambridge International, Pearson Edexcel, and AQA, the specific methods are described on their respective websites. Since the system may be busy, consider checking later in the day or using email notifications.
What should I do if I don’t get a place on results day?
If you don’t have a place, you can use Clearing to search for vacancies. Start by checking the UCAS Hub for available courses, then contact universities directly. Remember that vacancies change in real time, so keep checking.
Official sources
- Cambridge International results: https://www.cambridgeinternational.org/exam-administration/results
- Pearson Edexcel results: https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/support/Services/results-for-students.html
- AQA results days: https://www.aqa.org.uk/exams-administration/results-days
- UCAS Clearing: https://www.ucas.com/clearing-and-results-day