UUK & latest UCAS figures
Universities UK has responded to today’s (Thursday) UCAS application figures which show the number of applicants to UK universities and colleges is up 8.8% on this time last year.
The UCAS figures relate to people applying for full-time undergraduate courses and is a snapshot taken at 24 March 2009.
Diana Warwick, Chief Executive of Universities UK, said: "We are very encouraged by these figures that show unprecedented levels of interest in higher education courses. Applicants are making informed choices and thinking carefully about the value of higher education, particularly in the current economic climate.
"However, we expect a challenging admissions period this summer due to the restriction on the number of undergraduate places that will be funded this year. This means that competition for places will be particularly fierce for those courses in high demand.
"The increase in the number of mature applicants is an encouraging sign that people are looking to upskill during this difficult time for the jobs market.
"The positive figures on international applicants also underline the UK's position as one of the leading international destinations for students, who recognise that British degrees are robust, highly valued qualifications, respected all over the world, We know they are attracted to study in the UK by our universities' reputation for quality, innovative degree programmes, professional support services, and high completion rates.
Notes
1. For further information on the latest application figures, visit: http://www.ucas.ac.uk/
2. The restriction on the recruitment of students this year relates to full-time, HEU undergraduate and PGCE students funded by HEFCE.