In response to the latest UCAS data which details a rise in the number of students applying to go to university, including those from disadvantaged backgrounds, Universities UK Chief Executive Alistair Jarvis, said:
"It is very positive to see that there is a record number of UK 18-year-olds wanting to study at university this autumn. It shows that individuals recognise the many benefits that a university education brings for their life chances, career prospects and their future. It is particularly positive to see that more than one in four young people from disadvantaged areas have applied to university or college, and to see a growth in those wanting to study nursing courses. I am sure many will have been inspired by the stories we have seen during the pandemic of student nurses and university staff contributing to the national effort and supporting their local communities.
"Students can be confident that they will benefit from a high quality and positive experience at university this autumn, with the vast majority of universities planning to deliver much teaching, student support and social activities in-person."