Despite the Covid Crisis – there is a rise in number of students planning to start university this autumn

According to @ucas_online – There are currently more applicants holding a firm offer to start a course this autumn than the equivalent point last year, and fewer people accepting an offer for a deferred place.

This is the first time this data has been published during a cycle as we want to provide the clearest possible picture of applicant behaviour at this moment.

Universities Minister Michelle Donelan said:

 “I am really pleased to see that most students have committed to going to university in September, when compared to this point last year, despite uncertainty they may have had worries around the coronavirus.

“This is testament to the unwavering efforts of our higher education sector during the pandemic, with many universities setting out clear plans of how in person and online teaching will continue next year.

“I am confident that universities will continue to provide a word-class education as well as excellent support for students starting in September.”

Universities UK Chief Executive Alistair Jarvis, said:

“It is very positive to see that the number of students planning to start university this autumn is on the rise, especially those from the most disadvantaged areas, and that the number choosing to defer has fallen from this time last year.

“University remains an excellent choice for students. Despite the disruption caused by Covid-19, students can expect a high-quality experience this autumn with most universities planning to deliver teaching, student support and social activities in-person.”

Richard Smith, CEO of Unite Students, the UK’s largest developer and manager of student accommodation, comments:

“The high acceptance rate is welcome news and reflects students’ trust in universities to keep them safe. Our own research recently found that 89% of students are keen to return to campus when it is safe to do so, and 86% trust universities to provide a safe experience, which reflects the data from UCAS today.

“The university experience, even with social distancing measures in place, will remain a valuable life experience for students.”

Recent research by Unite Students found that students are keen to get back to university campuses to study and socialise. The study, carried out by Opinium, polled students and parents from the UK for their thoughts on COVID-19, student safety and returning to university, ahead of the start of the next academic year.

Key findings of Unite Students research:

• Almost nine in ten (89%) students are keen to get on campus once it is safe to do so
• 79% of students say living away from home and being on campus is as important a part of their university experience as lectures and tutorials
• But students are concerned about the impact of COVID-19 on their time at university – 91% are worried about disruption to studies, while 79% are concerned about the impact on socialising
• However, there’s a huge amount of trust in universities: 86% of students place their trust in universities to provide the necessary safety measures to keep them safe