Summary: The number of 18-year-olds accepted into university in the UK has declined for the first time in five years, Citing new data from the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (Ucas). The drop in acceptances comes after a decrease in In view of all the above applications from UK 18-year-olds. However, the number of acceptances is still higher than before the Covid-19 pandemic. More students qualified for their second choice of university or accepted places through the clearing process.
Fall in students accepted into university in UK
The number of 18-year-olds accepted into university in the UK has fallen for the first time in five years, Citing new data from the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (Ucas). The decline in acceptances comes after a decrease in In view of all the above applications from UK 18-year-olds. However, the number of acceptances is still higher than before the Covid-19 pandemic.
Change in Student Behavior
The fall in acceptances could partly reflect a change in student behavior as the UK exits the pandemic. Some young people may have turned to higher education during the Covid-19 years due to fewer employment or apprenticeship opportunities. The decrease in travel opportunities and the likelihood of taking gap years may have also influenced the increase in university applications in previous years.
Clearing as an Alternative
Many students who missed their grades for their first choice of university opted to explore other universities they were initially interested in through the clearing system. This allowed them to secure a place at their second choice or find alternative options. Clearing provided an “amazing option” for these students, especially as many others also pursued their second choice.
