Million Plus

The university think-tank million+ has welcomed research from the Institute of Fiscal Studies published on the 4th November which analyses the socio-economic differences in university outcomes in the UK, with a focus on drop-out rates, degree completion and degree class. The university think-tank says that the findings confirm the importance of the Student Opportunity Allocation which provides universities with additional resources to support students while they are studying and calls for the fund’s retention.

Professor Michael Gunn, Vice Chancellor of Staffordshire University and Chair of million+ said:

“This research confirms that the support which universities provide for students when they are studying is crucial in terms of outcome. The report’s findings support the government’s decision to retain the Student Opportunity Allocation and suggest that those who say that there is no need for this funding are on the wrong side of the argument and the evidence base.

“Student Opportunity funding helps widen access to higher education but it also provides universities with vital extra funds to support students once they have entered a course and plays an important role in retention and social mobility.”

ENDS

Notes to editors
1. For further information or to arrange an interview, contact Rochelle Owusu- Antwi, Press and Communications Officer, million+ on 020 7717 1658 / 07527 336 795 or email press@millionplus.ac.uk.
2. million+ is a leading university think-tank. More information can be found at www.millionplus.ac.uk.
3. The IFS working paper ‘Socio-economic differences in university outcomes in the UK: drop-out, degree completion and degree class’ can be found here
4. million+ has published a research report called ‘Student Opportunity Funding: Why it counts’ which can be found here