HEPI publishes 2022 Social Mobility Index

24 March 2022

The Higher Education Policy Institute has published its 2022 Social Mobility Index for universities in England today (24 March). The index identifies a number of Russell Group universities in its top 20 ranking and Queen Mary University London has ranked third for the second year running. 

Responding to the publication, Russell Group Policy Manager Chantel Le Carpentier said:

"The HEPI Index highlights the impact that universities can have in driving social mobility and our members are working hard to deliver. There has been real progress in terms of widening participation in recent years and applications to high tariff universities from students living in the most disadvantaged areas have increased again in this admissions cycle. The most under-represented students are 60% more likely to enter university now than they were ten years ago, and 30% more likely to enter Russell Group universities than five years ago.

"This positive change reflects the work Russell Group universities do with parents, schools and others to remove key barriers which prevent disadvantaged students progressing to university,  including closing gaps in prior attainment and delivering comprehensive bursary support.

"We also know that social mobility is not simply about getting into university, but the qualifications and skills that an individual gains in the course of their studies. Russell Group universities provide targeted support for groups like care experienced students to ensure they make the most of their higher education experience and can progress to skilled graduate employment. We know this work is paying dividends, with non-continuation rates of disadvantaged students at Russell Group universities continuing to fall, to just 2.8%.”

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