How I Secured Direct Entry into Year 2 of a BA Hons Architecture Program

Applying to university can be a daunting process, especially if your exam results didn’t go as planned. But, as I discovered, it's not the end of your academic journey. It could be the start of something even better.

My path to studying architecture wasn't traditional, but through the UK's university clearing system, I found a way to turn my dream of studying architecture into a reality. Here's how I did it and how you can too.

Here's how I did it and how you can too.

My Journey: From Interior Design to Architecture

At the end of my sixth year, I left school with a National Record of Achievement folder filled with certificates and glowing references but I was lacking in grades.

I knew my exam results weren't that of an architecture student the big dream of architecture wasn’t realistically on my mind when I left school.

I loved Art & Design and interiors so I applied and was accepted, to my local college to study for a diploma in Interior Spatial Design. It was in that course that I truly learned about architecture.

My Diploma gave me the tools to take on interior projects from hands-on lessons in drawing and model making to experience in project presentation. I gained a deeper understanding of design principles and was eager to learn more.

With my new skills, I also grew in confidence and was ready to aim higher - I wanted to prove I could.

I graduated was an Advanced Diploma in Interior Spatial Design.

Advanced Diploma Graduation Sonia Nicolson

Fight Your Imposter Syndrome

When it came time to apply to university, imposter syndrome hit - I wasn't sure I'd get in. I spent the summer mulling over my options and missed the UCAS deadline. But I plucked up the courage and figured I had nothing to lose. I went all in applying to pretty much all the Architecture courses on the Clearing list.

After a few weeks of phone calls and train journeys up and down the country with interviews and portfolio reviews - to my surprise, I was offered direct entry into the second year of the BA Hons Architecture program at my first choice school. This meant I could bypass the first year entirely because of my Diploma and experience in Interior Design.

I had done it, I was in. And I was about to find out how much work it was going to take. I accepted the offer and enrolled on the course the following month.

What is Clearing?

Clearing is a process used by universities in the UK to fill any remaining spaces on their courses. It's typically available to students who:

Didn’t receive the offers they hoped for.
Didn’t meet the conditional offers due to lower-than-expected exam results.
Are applying late, after the initial UCAS deadlines.

As a Senior Lecturer, I also have experience making offers to students who have applied through clearing. These students were a great addition to the cohort and no one knew they hadn’t applied alongside their classmates.

Clearing is a lifeline for many students who want to pursue higher education but have hit a few bumps along the way. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to reassess your goals and potentially discover new pathways.

University courses use clearing to top up their numbers and add to the mix of students. It’s not just about grades but about you, your story and reason for wanting to study your subject could win you a place. Diversity in the studio is so important, especially when encouraging collaboration and group projects.

Why Clearing Could Be the Perfect Route for You

Flexibility: Clearing offers a second chance to apply to university courses that might not have been available to you initially. It’s an opportunity to apply with your actual results rather than predicted grades.

New Opportunities: You may find courses or universities that weren’t on your radar before. You might discover a more tailored program that better fits your interests and previous experience.

Direct Entry Possibilities: If you’ve gained relevant experience through college or work experience, you might qualify for direct entry into a later year of your chosen course, like my second-year entry into Architecture.

Key Steps for Applying to University Through Clearing

If you’re considering applying through clearing, here’s a checklist to guide you through the process:

Research Your Options

Identify which universities still have open spots for your desired course. The UCAS website lists available courses during the clearing period.
Review the course details carefully to ensure it aligns with your career goals and interests. Feel free to pick up the phone and ask the course team as many questions as they would ask you in an interview.

Prepare Your Documents

Have all your exam results and any relevant qualifications to hand.
Made a personal statement.
Be ready to explain why you want to study the course and how your background makes you a suitable candidate.
For architecture and design courses, your portfolio is critical. Make sure it’s updated and showcases your best work. I always say that less is more, and remember white space is good so don’t overcrowd pages.

Reach Out to Universities

The clearing process can be very quick so don’t wait, contact the admissions office. Call the universities directly to inquire about available spaces. Be prepared to discuss your qualifications and why you’re a good fit. Don’t be nervous, they need your information and they want to fill the spots so don’t hold back, answer the questions and sell yourself.
Finally, inquire about direct entry options if you have relevant experience or previously studied a related course. Ask questions and explain your experience.

Be Ready for an Interview

Practice makes perfect, or as perfect as you can be, so get a head start by practising your answer to common questions. You will likely be asked about your experience, why you chose this course, your future goals, designers you love, a building that inspires you, etc.
Be enthusiastic about the course and subject. Your passion and enthusiasm for the subject can set you apart from other candidates. but don’t worry, when we talk about something we genuinely love, it shows.

Accepting an Offer

Review offers and make sure you understand the terms of the offer, including any conditions. Clearing spots can fill up fast, so if you get an offer, be ready to accept it quickly. And if that’s you, congratulations.

What’s Next?

Clearing was a turning point in my academic journey, and it could be for you too. Whether you didn’t get the grades you expected, you are realising another path might be better for you, or you want to push yourself in your higher education, clearing offers a unique opportunity to pursue your education and academic goals.

If you’re feeling unsure about the process, or if you need guidance on preparing for a clearing interview, I’m here to help.

I offer coaching calls and online tutorials to help you navigate the application process, prepare for interviews, and increase your chances of success.