Commenting on today’s (Thursday) UCAS figures, Nicola Dandridge, Chief Executive of Universities UK said: “The significant 8.7% increase in applications, demonstrates the extent to which people well understand the benefits and value of higher education. University is a life-changing, long-term investment that leads to a wide range of benefits for people in terms of their future income, health, career prospects, social life, and also has well-proven economic and social benefits for society at large.
“These benefits are particularly important in the current tough economic times.
“The notable 15.3% increase in the number of applicants aged 25 years or over, demonstrates how far we have moved away from the old model of university just being an activity for the 18-21 year olds. 37% of UK undergraduates are now aged over 25, and the proportions are increasing all the time, particularly for men. Universities now play a major part in most people’s lives, throughout their lives.
“In the context of this unprecedented demand, Universities UK is continuing to campaign against extensive financial cuts to the sector. As demand continues to increase this year, and with the continued cap on student numbers, we are going to see even more pressure on places. The case for continued investment in higher education is overwhelming, not least to avoid a situation where there are thousands of unhappy, unsuccessful applicants to university this summer.”
Notes
- For the UCAS final figures for 2009 entry, visit: http://www.ucas.ac.uk/about_us/media_enquiries/media_releases/2010/210110