The Admissions body UCAS has published its first data release on SQA results day (6 August) showing the number of Scots securing a place at university this autumn for academic year 2024/25.
Responding to the results, Claire McPherson, Director of Universities Scotland said:
“The number of Scots accepted for study in Scottish institutions has increased by 6% compared to the same point in 2023, which is great news on SQA results day.
“There are lots of positives for university applicants, including for those from a wide range of backgrounds. We have seen record numbers of widening access students gaining a place in higher education, with an 12% increase in the most disadvantaged 20%, taking the number to the highest level since 2015. This has been achieved with no displacement of other learners, as the numbers from all backgrounds has increased. This reflects a concerted effort from universities to support widening access.
“I want to congratulate everyone who worked hard for their qualifications today, including those who go onto other positive destinations. For anyone who just missed out on a place at university but still keen to start this September, there are thousands of places available through Clearing. Anyone unsure of their next steps can take comfort in the fact there is no wrong path through learning and lots of options still available. The careers service at SDS is open and there to help.”
Key figures from the UCAS data include:
- Overall, 31,970 Scottish students (all ages) have gained a place this year, compared to 30,050 in 2023 (+6%) and 28,750 in 2019 (+11%).
- Overall, 30,270 Scottish applicants (all ages) have gained a place at their first (UCAS ‘firm’) choice, an increase on 28,450 last year (+6%) and 27,160 (+11%) in 2019.
- A record 20,670 young Scots (aged 19 and under) have been accepted at university, up from 19,640 (+5%) in 2023 and 16,610 (+24%) in 2019.
- Overall, 5,080 applicants from the 20% most disadvantaged areas of Scotland (SIMD20 or “Quintile 1” as expressed by UCAS) have secured a place in 2024, rising 12% compared to 2023.
- The proportion of the most disadvantaged Scottish 18-year-olds (SIMD20, Quintile 1) getting a place has risen to 15.4% this year, up from 14.6% in 2023.
- In comparison, the proportion of the most advantaged Scottish 18-year-olds (SIMD80+, Quintile 5) has increased to 44%, up from 42% last year.
- The most advantaged students are still 2.84 times more likely to enter higher education than the least advantaged, but there is a slight narrowing of the gap in participation as the figure was 2.86 last year.
Note: This data is live and correct as of Midnight, 6 August 2024. UCAS will continue to process applications throughout August, including those made through Clearing so the data will change daily.
Skills Development Scotland Results Helpline: 0808 100 8000.