Greenwich University is gearing up to receive more than 25,000 calls from prospective students this month.

A special call centre for students hoping to get a place at the university this September has been set up at the Student Union, in Bathway, Woolwich.

The helpline is part of the national clearing operation and will be manned by more than 100 staff, students and expert advisers when the A-Level results are released tomorrow (Thursday).

Callers will be able to speak to clearing advisers about course availability and entry criteria as well as getting advice on careers, student loans and accommodation.

Last summer, the university received 22,869 calls which was nearly 3,000 more than summer 1999, with 19,956.

Head of recruitment and marketing Dai Hall said: “We've set up this one-stop-shop as a service for everyone who is thinking of applying to university this summer.

“Whether you have just received your A-level results or you are a mature student wondering what qualifications you need, we'll be able to give you advice.”

Currently operating 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, from August 16 to 31, the helpline will be open from 8.30am to 7pm on weekdays and 10am to 2pm at weekends. The clearing helpline is on 0800 005 006.