Clearing questions tutors do and don't want to hear

Admissions tutors are impressed by students quizzing them on courses they’re offering through Clearing – and it’s worth having some more general questions too

Students – and their parents – ask some funny things. Even the most experienced admissions tutors have been temporarily floored by some queries during Clearing. “I’m worried my son will not be able to use a tin opener – could you help him?” asked one parent of staff at the University of Greenwich. “Could I bring my gerbil/snake/dog?” is another perennial favourite – and the answer is almost always no.

“What course do you think I should do?” is the question no would-be undergraduate should ask, but that doesn’t stop them. Other students are more particular about their surroundings. “Can I have a room with a view?” one student asked staff at Greenwich, following it up with: “And what colour will my curtains be – I want to buy a matching bedspread.” Another simply wondered: “Who will cook my meals?”