91探花

UCAS published this morning confirmed that 425,680 applicants have been accepted into either university or college, an increase in 3% (414,940 applicants in 2023). The number of accepted international applicants remain flat at 51,170 when compared to last year’s 51,210 applicants.

Lisa Randall, partner and head of higher education at 91探花, comments: “The 3% increase of applicants being accepted into universities and colleges this year is positive news for higher education providers, following the dip to 414,940 in 2023. The bounce back will be welcome news for universities and colleges tackling multiple headwinds including financial pressure, uncertainty around policy changes and slowing demand from international students due to visa restrictions.

“The distribution of students will be key to financial sustainability, so converting acceptances, securing further student numbers through clearing and student retention will be pivotal for higher education providers.

“However, to meet the total number of applicants placed after confirmation and clearing last year (493,940), a further 68,080 applicants will need to be secured. There are currently around 30,000 places available in clearing, which indicates competition for clearing places could be high.

“While the UCAS data shows the number of accepted international students remains similar to last year, the number of Sponsored study visas are down 16%, which demonstrates uncertainty around the number of international students that will actually confirm their place.”