University applications rise despite economic downturn
Last updated 2/19/2009 3:14:42 PM
University applications rising
Latest figures from the university admissions body UCAS show a continued rise in the number of those seeking a degree education - despite fears that the credit crunch would deter students.
As of 15 January, the date by which applicants should apply to be given equal consideration, there were 464,167 people applying for a full-time undergraduate course at UK universities and colleges. That's a rise of 7.8% or 33,678.
Anthony McClaran, UCAS Chief Executive said: "These figures represent the third year of strong and continuous growth in full-time undergraduate applications.
"There has been considerable speculation about the effect of current economic conditions on applications for higher education but these figures give some assurance that demand remains strong. Education is a long-term investment for the individual and for society as a whole."
One pattern is particularly clear: across the UK, there is a pronounced increase in mature applicants with the 21-24 age group showing a rise of 12.9% and an increase of 12.6% from applicants over the age of 24.
Law remains the top subject choice with nursing degrees entering the top-five due to an increase of 15.8% or 7,424 applicants. Nursing Diploma courses saw an increase of 15.1% or 5,389 applicants.
International recruitment continues to rise with an overall increase of 11.2% from all non-UK countries and over 10% increases from The Republic of Ireland, Cyprus, Singapore, France, Greece, Pakistan and India.
China remains the largest provider of non-EU applicants with 3,641 - a rise of 7.5%.