Can you go through clearing after a gap year?

I'm considering taking a gap year before applying to colleges, but I'm worried about the logistics. Is it possible to go through the clearing process after a gap year? How does it work if you're taking time off?

Absolutely, taking a gap year does not exclude you from utilizing the clearing process. Clearing, for those unfamiliar, is a service provided by UCAS (Universities and Colleges Admissions Service) in the UK that helps applicants find university spots that are still available.

If you're thinking of taking a gap year, you can approach this in a couple of ways. You can apply to universities during the usual application period and then ask for a deferred entry, meaning you're asking the university to hold your place for a year while you take your gap year. Then, if you do not get the results you need or you change your mind about the university you've chosen, you're eligible to go through clearing.

Alternatively, you could wait until after your gap year to apply. In this case, you'd be applying after your classmates have already started their university courses. This would mean you're essentially a year behind in your academics, but that should not deter you if you feel that a gap year is the best option. If you apply in this manner, you would just go through the regular UCAS process and, if necessary, clearing.

A couple things to note:

1) Before taking a gap year and going through clearing, it's critical to confirm with each university whether they accept deferred entries or late applications from gap year students. While most do, it's always good to check.

2) Make sure you are meeting any requirements or deadlines set by UCAS. Clearing opens in July each year and closes in late October. You need to complete your original UCAS application by mid-January to be eligible for clearing. Remember that specific dates may change each year, so always confirm them on the UCAS website.

Lastly, it's always good practice to have a plan for your gap year, whether that involves work, travel, volunteerism, etc., as universities appreciate seeing that productive use of time if you do end up applying after your gap year.