Access and inclusiveness at Russell Group universities

Key facts and statistics

Over three quarters of first degree entrants at Russell Group universities are from state schools and colleges.  Around 1 in 5 of first degree entrants are from lower socio-economic groups.

In 2008–09 Russell Group universities spent £66.5 million of additional fee income on bursaries, scholarships and additional outreach activities.

In 2008-09 the average bursary offered by Russell Group universities to students receiving a full grant was £1,523, more than 1.5 times the average level for the sector as a whole, and nearly five times the minimum bursary of £310 required by the Office for Fair Access.  Evidence shows that bursaries are effective at encouraging high-achieving students from low-income families to opt for a more selective university.