Universities UK has responded to the publication today of A and AS-level results. The data shows a small increase in the overall pass rate - with 97.6% of entries awarded at least an E - and also a continued resurgence of science, technology and mathematics (STEM) subjects.
More than 650,000 people have applied to start full-time undergraduate courses this autumn, an increase of 12 per cent. Figures released today by UCAS show that, as of midnight, a record 379,411 applicants were accepted into university or college, compared to 371,016 on results day last year. UCAS also confirmed this morning that, at the start of the process, there were 18,000 courses in Clearing – each of which will have one or more places available.
Commenting on today's results, Nicola Dandridge, Chief Executive of Universities UK, said: “We must congratulate all students for their hard work and these are another great set of results.
“It is particularly pleasing to see continued increases in strategically important subjects such as science, technology and mathematics, all of which will play a critical role in the future growth of the UK economy. Some of the credit for this must go to the work of universities and the higher education funding councils who have been working actively with schools and colleges to increase the study of STEM subjects.
“Due to the increased pressure on places this year, competition is likely to be quite intense for the remaining courses. But we would urge applicants not to panic and to seek advice from UCAS and universities.
“Although we know that Clearing will be more competitive than ever this year, we do know from UCAS that there were at least 18,000 courses, with numerous places available, in Clearing this year. If applicants can be flexible, there is still a chance to gain a university place this year.
“Universities UK would also appeal to all applicants aiming to start courses this year to apply for their student loans as soon as possible.
“The record application figures show that people continue to recognise the long-term benefits of gaining a degree. But the higher education funding system is in need of urgent reform due to the threat of imminent public sector funding cuts which include universities. Failure to find a solution will put universities, students and most significantly, potential future students, in a very difficult position.”
Notes
- The data published today shows the cumulative percentage of A-level grades A-E has increased by 0.1 percentage points from 97.5 per cent to 97.6 per cent. The results also show an increase of 0.3 percentage points (from 26.7 per cent in 2009 to 27.0 per cent in 2010) at grade A. The A-level results are available on the JCQ website.
- The Exam Results Helpline provides free, on-the-spot information and advice to GCSE and A level students as well as Standards and Highers (in Scotland) who do not receive the results they expect and more importantly don't know what to do next. Whether it is questions about grades, offers, courses and qualifications or advice about student finance, gap years or moving away from home, qualified advisers will be on-hand to offer impartial information and advice to students over the exam results period. They can be reached on 0808 100 8000. The UCAS customer Service Unit helpline offers specific advice to applicants about their individual applications. It is open all year round. Telephone number is 0871 468 0 468.
- In 2009, a total of over 47,000 students were accepted on to courses through Clearing. UCAS confirmed this morning that there were approximately 18,000 courses with places available in Clearing this year – each of which will have one or more places available.
- An applicant's A-level results is only one of a number of factors (and qualifications) that universities take into account when selecting students. Others include the personal statement, school recommendation and educational context, interviews in some subjects, and relevant skills.
- To view a video of Nicola Dandridge, Chief Executive of Universities UK, talking about the university admissions process in 2010, the impact of the increased demand for places, how clearing works and what to do if you're not accepted this year, click here.