A RECORD number of students are set to take up degree places through the clearing system, and with the pandemic this year's last minute scramble for university places is not just for those those who have missed out on their first choice.

Paul Starkey, director of student recruitment and admissions at the University of Bolton, said: "We are expecting a fairly buoyant clearing this year. Clearing is not just about those students who didn’t get the grade to get into their first choice, it’s for all those potential applicants that haven’t yet considered university, or didn’t consider studying before the pandemic and now wish to apply."

He added: "The economic environment has changed too so there is less certainty about getting a job, some have unfortunately lost their jobs so university is now an options for many where it wasn’t before. Many students will now also want to stay closer to home rather than going away to study."

The University of Bolton was the first to confirm how it would be opening its campus safely to students

For those who have missed out on their first choice university place, Mr Starkey, said it important not to "panic".

He said: "If you’ve not the got the results you’ve expected then yes, please call your university first and discuss options. Make sure you have your UCAS ID number, a pen and paper and make a note of who you spoke to and when. Ask the university to confirm how they will follow-up your call.

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The University of Bolton (pictured) fills around a quarter of its 2000 undergraduate places at this time of year.

"If you are only now considering university then it’s not too late," he said, " Many of our applicants like to keep their options open during the year and apply at this time of year. While most of our courses have been more popular than ever this year, with our expanding facilities and investment most still have places whether you are interested in engineering, computing, health, arts, business or psychology – check our clearing pages on our website for the full list of courses with places. Even our most popular nursing courses has places available for January and May 2020 intakes so get in touch and find out what we can do for you.

Mr Starkey said: "We are very proud to be a university that opens up opportunities in higher education to people from all backgrounds, even those who perhaps haven’t got formal qualifications but have work experience or those that have studied some time ago. You’ll find a friendly and supportive atmosphere at Bolton and you’ll be amongst people from all walks of life."

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(Celebrations as University of Bolton students graduate)

He added: "Clearing by its very definition moves quickly and places do fill fast so it’s important to get in touch as soon as you can but don’t rush into making such an important life decision and don’t let any university pressurise you. We will be taking applications for most courses up to at least the middle of September so even if you think it’s too late give us a call and chances are we can help."

The University of Bolton has a freephone number 0808 281 1111 and those interested in studying there can speak directly to a lecturer.

There will also be on-campus open days tomorrow and Saturday and speak to them face to face ­— and places must be booked in advance. Those who have qualifications with them on the day could even get an offer on the day.

"Most importantly remember we are here to help you so don’t be afraid to give us a call, drop a line on social media or book a slot at the open days," said Mr Starkey.