Million Plus

The university think-tank million+ has commented on UCAS statistics published today (January 30) on applications from full-time students seeking to commence courses at university later in the year. million+ welcomed the increase in the number of young people applying to university but has pointed out that the data confirms that there are wide variations rates in progression to higher education according to age, background and parliamentary constituency.

Pam Tatlow, Chief Executive of million+ said:

“The number of applicants to university has increased by 1% overall and is now higher than in any previous year but  the decline in applications from those over the age of 25 is a major concern.

“It is still the case that students from affluent backgrounds are 2.5 times more likely to apply to university than those from less advantaged families and there are significant variations between parliamentary constituencies. There is clearly unfinished business for the next government to secure educational opportunities for all.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. For further information or to arrange an interview, contact Rochelle Owusu-Antwi, Press and Communications Officer, million+ on 020 7717 1658 / 07527 336 795 or email press@millionplus.ac.uk
2. million+ is a leading university think-tank. More information can be found at www.millionplus.ac.uk. 
3. According to UCAS data, variation in application rates of 18 year olds by constituency range from 18% to 65%.
4. The full set of UCAS statistics on January applications can be found on their website from Friday 30 January. The date of 15 January on which the statistics are based is the date when applicants are guaranteed equal consideration by universities. It is not the closing date for applications to university for 2015.