Clearing 2022 – Brits don’t know what it is

Ahead of A-Level Results Day, a new survey looking at the public’s attitudes towards higher education has highlighted a level of confusion as to what options are out there for prospective university students.

Many A-level students are no doubt excited to make their move to university. Despite this, it is undeniably hard to miss the multitude of recent reports concerning universities dropping certain degrees, and what students should do if their desired course is no longer being offered as an option. Whilst there are a variety of things students can do if they are faced with this, it appears there is a high level of confusion over young adults’ options post sixth form, with 62% of the people surveyed claiming that they didn’t know clearing was.

The research also discovered what prospective students value the most when picking their university options on UCAS, with a university’s location (54%) being prioritised over their reputation (50%). A university’s employability rating came fourth on the list (39%), whilst 37% would allow whether their friends or family members attended the university to influence their choice.

Aston spoke to Professor Martin Stringer, vice chancellor of education at Swansea University.

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