What Universities Actually Offer in August
Most universities do not run full formal open days after results day — those events happen in the spring and autumn before application. What universities do offer in August are shorter, less formal campus visit opportunities specifically for students who have received Clearing offers and want to see the institution before committing. These are valuable when they can be arranged quickly but should not delay commitment to a strong opportunity in a course that is filling fast.
Quick Context on Clearing
Clearing is the UCAS process that matches applicants to courses that still have places. It opens in the summer and runs until October, and it is open to students who did not receive offers, did not meet their conditions, declined all offers, or applied late. For 2027 entry, the last date to add a Clearing choice is 18 October 2027.
How to Find Visit Opportunities
- Check the Clearing page on each university's website, which usually states when and how to visit.
- Call the Clearing hotline and ask whether campus tours, department visits or virtual sessions are available.
- Follow the university's social media on results day, because last-minute events are often announced there.
- Ask the admissions team whether you can speak to current students or a course tutor.
Some universities run formal Clearing open days in late August. Others offer tours by appointment or only virtual events. Policies vary, so ask directly.
When a Visit Is Worth the Time
- You have two or more good offers and cannot choose between them.
- You would be moving far from home, and you do not know the area.
- The course is in a field where facilities matter, such as laboratories, studios or clinical spaces.
- You are unsure about accommodation, and you need to see the options.
When It May Not Be Worth It
- The course is nearly full, and a delay could cost you the place.
- You already know the university well.
- The cost of travel is high, and a virtual tour would answer your questions.
Universities may hold a Clearing offer for only a short time, so ask how long before you book a journey.
What to Do on the Visit
- See the department, the library and the specific spaces you will use.
- Look at the student accommodation you are likely to be offered, if it is available.
- Talk to students on the course about the workload and the teaching.
- Ask a tutor how the course is assessed and what happens after graduation.
- Test the journey from the campus to the town centre and to the station.
- Check the real cost of rent, food and travel.
Questions to Ask by Phone or in Person
- Is the course accredited, if that matters for your career?
- What are the entry requirements, and how flexible are they?
- Is accommodation guaranteed to Clearing students?
- What support is available for new students?
- When do I need to confirm my place?
A Simple Decision Rule
Commit when four things are true: the course fits your goals, the university is somewhere you could live happily, you can afford it, and you have a clear answer about accommodation. If one of these is missing, find out the answer before you add the choice to UCAS. If all four are in place and the course is filling fast, a visit can wait until after you are accepted.
Adding the Choice
After you speak to a university, you add it as a Clearing choice in your UCAS Hub. The university then decides whether to confirm your place. You can only add one Clearing choice at a time, so do your research before you click. A rushed choice can leave you in the wrong course or with no accommodation.
If You Cannot Visit
Ask for a virtual tour, a recorded video of facilities, or a call with a current student. Read the module list, the student satisfaction score and the graduate outcomes for the course. Many students make good decisions without visiting, as long as they ask detailed questions.