262,820 Students Secure University Places as London Universities Open Clearing
Table of Content
Key Highlights:
- A record 262,820 UK 18-year-olds have secured university or college places for 2026.
- 3% rise in acceptance compared with 2025, and 228,990 students got their first-choice university.
- 26,000+ courses are still available through UCAS Clearing, giving students another choice to make an entry to their dream universities.
- London universities have offered vacancies for September intake 2026.
University Places Hit Record High as Admissions Surge
A record 262,820 UK 18-year-olds have secured places at universities and colleges for the 2026 academic year, according to new figures from the Universities and College Admissions Service (UCAS). The figure was released on 13 August, as students across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland received their A-level and other Level 3 results.
The latest figure is 3% higher than the 255,130 students accepted at the same point in 2025. Of those accepted this year, 228,990 have secured their firm choice, while another 31,770 have been placed at their insurance choice.
The rise comes as the UK continues to see a larger population of 18-year-olds. UCAS said that the entry rate for this age group is 31.6%, mostly similar to last year. This means the record number of acceptances is being driven mainly by the growing size of the age group rather than a major increase in the proportion of entering higher education.
For students who did not secure their preferred university, the admissions process is not over. More than 26,000 university and college courses are available through Clearing, giving applicants another route into higher education this autumn.
London University Vacancies Widen the Choice for Students
The record UK university places 2026 come as London universities continue to offer opportunities through Clearing. Institutions including King’s College London, UCL and Queen Mary University of London are among those reported to have limited vacancies for September entry.
This is significant for students who may have missed their grades, changed their plans or decided that their original choice is no longer right for them. Clearing allows eligible applicants to search for courses with available places and contact universities directly before adding a confirmed choice through UCAS.
The situation also highlights a wider shift in the UK higher education market. Although record numbers of young people have secured places, universities still need to fill remaining vacancies.
UCAS Chief Executive Dr Jo Saxton said, “It was encouraging to see so many young people securing university and college places after experiencing disruption to their education during the pandemic.”
For universities, this makes the final stage of UK university admissions 2026 cycle particularly important. Institutions need to balance demand for popular courses with available capacity, while students have an opportunity to compare alternatives before making a final decision.
What the Next Step Looks Like for Students?
Students who have not secured a university place can continue exploring UCAS Clearing 2026 options. UCAS Clearing opened on 2 July and is scheduled to remain open until 19 October 2026, although individual courses can close earlier once their places are filled.
Applicants can search available courses through UCAS, contact universities about vacancies and once they receive an offer they can add the course as their Clearing choice through UCAS hub. Students should check course requirements, accommodation availability and other important details before accepting a place.
For those who have already secured a university place, the record 262,820 acceptance suggests that the 2026 entry cycle is on track for a strong start. However, with thousands of courses still available, the next few weeks will determine how many remaining London university vacancies are filled and how the final shape of this year’s university intake develops.