Missed out on a university place? CAFRE opens UCAS Clearing for September degree courses

CAFRE’s Student Recruitment Advisers, Toni Donnelly, Laura Browne and Caoimhe Hegarty are on hand to answer your UCAS Clearing questions.

Students who have not yet secured a university place for September still have time to apply, with the College of Agriculture, Food and Rural Enterprise (CAFRE) opening a range of degree courses through UCAS Clearing.

The move gives prospective students across Northern Ireland another opportunity to begin higher education this autumn, with places available on Honours Degree and Foundation Degree programmes linked to careers in the agri-food, horticulture and equine sectors.

A second chance to start this September

UCAS Clearing is designed for students who do not yet have a university place, including those making a late application, those who have declined a previous offer or anyone considering a change in direction before the new academic year begins.

CAFRE says its Student Recruitment Advisers are available to help applicants understand the options available and guide them through the Clearing process.

The college offers BSc (Honours) and Foundation Degree courses, validated by Ulster University, in Agri-Food, Equine and Horticulture.

Focus on careers and industry

CAFRE says its courses are developed in partnership with employers, combining academic study with practical experience to prepare students for careers in the land-based and agri-food industries.

According to the college, more than 95% of graduates either move into employment or continue with further study within six months of completing their course.

That emphasis on industry links and employability has become a key attraction for students looking to enter sectors that remain important to Northern Ireland’s economy.

How to apply

Anyone interested in applying through UCAS Clearing for September 2026 is encouraged to contact CAFRE’s Student Recruitment Team to discuss available places and course options.

Prospective students can check current course availability by visiting www.ucas.com. Those seeking advice on the Clearing process can email CAFRErecruitment@daera-ni.gov.uk.

With the September intake approaching, available places may change as applications are processed.