News from the Higher Education Sector

Promising rise in underrepresented student numbers

Across the UK, there has been a 7% increase of 18-year-old students from the most deprived areas in the UK (IMDQ1) entering higher education. Additionally, 82% of all UK students from underrepresented backgrounds were accepted by their UCAS ‘firm’ choice, a 4% increase from the previous year.

Personal statement removed from UK university applications

The requirement to write a personal statement as part of a UK university application has been removed by UCAS. It has been replaced by three guided questions. This move should help students who traditionally struggle to access higher education by offering greater clarity on what universities are looking for from applicants.

The three questions are: Why do you want to study this course or subject? How have your qualifications and studies helped you prepare for this course or subject? What else have you done to prepare outside of education, and why are these experiences helpful?

University application fee waived for recipients of Free School Meals

From September 2024, students who declare that they are or have been in receipt of Free School Meals on their UCAS application will have the option to have their application fee waived.

It can be difficult for students from low-income households to apply to university due to concerns that they don’t belong at university, or that they cannot afford to attend.

It is hoped that by removing the application fee, more students from underrepresented backgrounds will be encouraged and enabled to apply for university.