million+ comments on unprecedented rise in applications to university
UCAS (university and college admissions service) figures released today (Thursday) show an overall 8.8% increase in UK applications to study at university on this time last year. This is an additional 42,367 applicants across the UK and an additional 31,139 applicants in England alone. The most significant increases in applicants are in the over 20 and over 25 age groups with applications in England rising by 17.9%.
However, John Denham, the Universities Secretary has cut by 5000 the number of funded student places in England for 2009/10. These UCAS figures confirm that qualified, students of all ages will not find places this year. The current average student age in million+ member universities is 26
Pam Tatlow Chief Executive of the university think-tank million+ said, “In economically difficult times a Labour Government which has done so much to encourage aspiration must not lose sight of its long-term, strategic goals or its nerve.
“These figures are the tip of the iceberg and there will be more applications to come. It would be unthinkable if thousands of students were unable to improve their chances of future employment by being deprived of the opportunity go to universities which have the capacity to teach them. The Government will have to fund more places unless it wants to add to the unemployment queue or resile on its promise to improve higher level skills.”
ENDS
Notes to editors:
- million+ is the university think-tank, working to solve the complex problems in higher education. www.millionplus.ac.uk
- UCAS figures are a snapshot taken on March 24 2009. The full figures can be sought from the UCAS press office (d.barker@ucas.ac.uk) or by calling 01242 545723
- For more information please contact Gemma Tumelty, Public Affairs Officer on 0207 7171657 or 07900 277819.