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Increase in applicants to Scottish universities mirror the trend for excellence

Figures published today by the University and College Admissions Service (UCAS) show strong increases in the number of students that have applied to study in Scotland’s universities by the end of June deadline.

There has been an increase in the number of Scottish domiciled applicants to Scottish universities, as well as strong growth in the number of applicants across the UK wanting to study in Scotland. Overall, there was a 6.1 per cent increase in applicants of all domiciles to universities in Scotland.

Today’s UCAS figures show that:

  • The number of Scottish domiciled applicants to Scottish universities is up 1.2% from 41,719 in 2012 to 42,201 in 2013
  • The number of English domiciled applicants to Scottish universities has increased significantly by 14% in 2013 compared to the same time last year
  • The number of international (non EU) applicants is up by 6.1% in 2013 compared to 2012.

The figures strongly suggest that Scotland remains a highly sought after destination for higher education and that Scotland has quickly recovered from the instability in student demand caused by the introduction of fees of up to £9,000 in England and for students from the rest of the UK that choose to study in Scotland.

Commenting on these figures, David Lott, Deputy Director, Universities Scotland said:

 

“Scotland’s universities have a lot to offer students with the highest levels of student satisfaction and best rates in the UK for graduates getting jobs or progressing to further study. It’s good to see this reflected in increased applications to Scottish institutions this year from Scots, from students across the rest of the UK and from Europe and beyond.

“It is very encouraging to see Scottish universities bounce back from last year’s dip in application rates from students across the rest of the UK, following the introduction of fees. The fact that Scottish universities are seeing applications from fee-paying students from the UK and further afield increase demonstrates the quality of the educational experience on offer in Scotland.”

 

Further details can be found on the UCAS website