Million Plus

The university think-tank million+ has today (4 February) responded to the UCAS January deadline statistics report, expressing concern that the number of English applicants has declined and that the government’s goal to double the number of students from disadvantaged backgrounds applying to university could be at risk.

Pam Tatlow, Chief Executive of the university think-tank million+ said:

“It is concerning that applications to university from UK applicants have not increased, and in particular that there has been a decline in applications from England where the removal of student number controls and the introduction of a more market-led system were designed to enable more students to attend university.

“The UK has a strong tradition of people of all ages applying, but with the fall in English applications most apparent in those potential students between the age of 20 and 34 the risk is that this is being thrown into reverse. The Prime Minister’s target to double the number of students from disadvantaged backgrounds applying to university will be challenging to meet if these trends continue.

“These are issues that need to be taken into account if the government presses ahead with its Higher Education Bill.”

ENDS

Notes to Editors

1. For further information or to arrange an interview, contact Dan Blows on 020 7717 1658 | 07527 336795 or press@millionplus.ac.uk
2. million+ is a leading university think-tank. More information can be found at www.millionplus.ac.uk
3. The UCAS January deadline statistics report will be published on 4 February and available here.