Record applications to university

A record number of Scots, 39,954, have applied to go to university this year and total applications to Scottish universities have increased to 103,219.

The UCAS statistics show an extra 800 Scots (around two per cent) have applied to study. The figures also show the proportion of school leavers applying has grown every year since 2007 and that 18 year olds from the most disadvantaged areas of Scotland are around 80 per cent more likely to apply than in 2004.

Education Secretary Michael Russell said:

“It is good news that a record number of people living in Scotland have applied to university next year and that our universities continue to be a coveted choice around the globe. I am particularly pleased to see more school leavers from deprived areas applying.

“These figures show Scots are already benefiting from our decision to ensure access to higher education is free and these students will also be some of the first to benefit from the best package of student support in the UK.

“I have already announced an extra 2,000 higher education places for next year, targeted at those progressing from college and students from deprived areas. I am confident that Scottish applicants will be able to achieve their goals of a university education and play their role in securing our economic future.”