16 July 2010

million+ calls for additional places as record number of university applications confirmed

Figures released by UCAS, the Universities Admissions Service, confirm that a record number of applications had been received for full-time courses by 30 June. Overall the figures confirm there are 70,000 more applications than at the same point last year and the figures do not include people applying late or applications from those who want to study part-time.

Professor Les Ebdon, Chair of the university think-tank million+ and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire said: ‘It is unsurprising that a record number of people want to study at university. Attainment and aspiration are rising and the labour market remains difficult. The largest increase (23%) in applications is from people over 25 who want to start courses which will help them re-focus their careers. Even for younger people, the 15% increase in applications confirms that there is a real willingness to gain a graduate qualification rather than join the unemployment queue. These figures take no account of people who apply late or who want to study part-time.

“It will be a tragic waste of talent if highly qualified students and students from widening participation backgrounds miss out on a university place in 2010. Instead of fining universities if they recruit more students than they have been allocated, the Government should now fund additional university places in 2010 if they want to be serious about their commitment to social mobility.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. The full UCAS statistical release can be viewed here. Key figures include:
   • Total number of applications to university for FT undergraduate study in 2010 for 2010/11 academic year (as at 30 June): 660,953
   • Total number of applications to university for FT undergraduate study in 2009 for 2009/10 academic year (versus same point last year): 592,312
   • As at 30 June there are 56,960 applicants who previously applied – representing a 24% increase in ‘re-appliers’ compared to 2009
   • Female applicants are up by 12.4%, vs. 10.5 for male
   • Older applicants have seen the largest increases: 14.9% for 21-24 year-olds; 22.6% for 25-39 year-olds; 23.3% for 40+ year-olds
   • Subjects which have seen the largest increases in applicants are:
   - nursing: 61.5%
   - design studies: 34.8%
   - social work: 27%
2. For more information, comment or interviews from million+ please contact Victoria Mills on 020 7717 1659 or 07900 277819