Students at the University of Suffolk who joined through clearing are urging applicants to not panic as they collect their A Level results today.

Clearing is the process which opens following the usual UCAS cycle to allow people to apply directly for university.

Zoe Whent from Rushmere St Andrew, joined the university through clearing in 2021, almost a month after getting her results, and is now graduating with a First Class Honours in English.

She said: "I called at the end of September because I was working another job which I really didn't enjoy.

Zoe WhentZoe Whent (Image: University of Suffolk)

"I have always loved English so thought I am just going to take the leap and go for it.

"For those thinking about it this year, just do it.

"There is no harm in trying, and no matter how late you think you have left it, there is no reason not to just call up and see."

Kelly White was another to enrol via clearing and became a student in September 2022 to study mental health nursing.

Her education journey saw Kelly complete pre-access and access courses to get her GCSEs.

The University of Suffolk's waterfront buildingThe University of Suffolk's waterfront building (Image: University of Suffolk/Gregg Brown)

The Saxmundham-based student said: "I thought I would take the plunge and apply through Clearing at Suffolk, and if I didn’t get in I would try the following year.

"But I applied, spoke to a module leader, had an interview and within a couple of weeks I knew I had a place.

"It was really clear and I joined the cohort on time. Joining though clearing doesn’t mean your experience is going to be any different."

The university's clearing call centre is now open for applicants to speak to admissions advisors, while course representatives will also be on hand to chat through students' course questions.

Kelly WhiteKelly White (Image: University of Suffolk)

Professor Mohammad Dastbaz, deputy vice-chancellor at the University of Suffolk, said: “Our advice to applicants is to stay calm and get in touch at the earliest opportunity to speak to one of our admissions advisors, who can help guide you through your options here at the University of Suffolk.

"Our courses ensure students are career-ready upon graduation, and allow them to enjoy enriching opportunities through their studies, link-ups with employers and brilliant careers support.

"We can’t wait to welcome our new students in September."