Great grades and difficult choices: my Clearing story

Hello, my name is Maher and I am currently studying MPhysiotherapy (Hons) Sport and Exercise Medicine here at Bradford. I'm coming to the end of my third year and exam season is rearing its head.

Importantly, I have an additional fourth year left to study as I chose to study for a combined undergraduate Master's degree instead of a regular Bachelor's. I was given the opportunity to do so during Clearing.

This is my story of how I have got to where I am so far and how Clearing helped me.

Why did you use Clearing?

If we go back to 2021, I had just completed an Access to Higher Education Diploma via the Distance Learning Centre in Physio and Sports Therapy and definitely knew that I wanted to go into physiotherapy, but not too sure where. My diploma was 100% coursework, so I didn't really have a proper Results Day. Thankfully, I achieved 39 Distinctions and 6 Merits which is the equivalent of AAB.

Like most students, I applied through UCAS in the main cycle, but to no avail, as I was humbly rejected. Frankly, this was due to my poor personal statement and not my grades. This left me quite worried about my future and how I would get into physiotherapy, but I was able to utilise Clearing to find myself a spot.

How did Results Day go for you?

Before I found out about my grade, I really was quite nervous as I knew it would have a huge impact on where I would end up and what I would be studying.

Once I was told my grade, I began to contact universities. I was quite pleased with my grade as I knew it could get me into my dream career, but I knew I could have got a better grade. My parents always taught me to stay thankful, so I persisted by calling and emailing numerous universities. I became aware of Clearing through UCAS and that's how I knew I could still go to university as there were many places left on many degrees.

I was a bit impatient and felt I was better communicating with an actual person so I began calling instead of filling in application forms online. In addition, I felt it was the quickest way to proceed with my application and that it could help make a good impression or get to know a little bit about the university by speaking to the admissions advisors.

Overall, those few days were a bit of a rollercoaster, but staying patient and persevering meant I got to where I am today and I am thankful for that.

What was your experience?

I moved on to Clearing and I had two options: the University of Bradford and the University of Gloucestershire. They both offered me an interview and I was pleased that I passed both. Now I had a decision on my hands.

Throughout the interview process, I felt the University of Bradford lecturers were more attentive and compelling. In addition, they also provided me with the opportunity to study for an undergraduate Master's degree, boosting my graduate prospects. I felt this was a no-brainer and I chose the University of Bradford.

I reside in Somerset, which is over 250 miles away from Bradford. I knew the University of Gloucestershire would be more convenient, but I felt the sacrifice of being over four hours away from my family has been worth it.

Do you have any tips and advice for students who might go through Clearing this year?

My advice to prospective university students who may go through Clearing is that it can be daunting. It was for me as I was worried that I might not find a place to study for my desired degree.

However, it is vital to not be despondent. In addition, due to the nature of Clearing, it is important to be quick. Slouching around will not be beneficial and getting on the phone and emailing universities as soon as possible will boost your chances. Even if you are unable to go to your desired university, I believe you can still enjoy yourself at whichever university you go to. It is all about your mindset and attitude towards it.