UCAS End of Cycle Report

19 December 2014

Commenting on the UCAS end of cycle report Dr Wendy Piatt, Director General of the Russell Group, said:

“It is encouraging to see another increase in the numbers of students from disadvantaged backgrounds being admitted to the universities which demand higher grades.  

“But there is still more progress to be made. We now need many more students from non-traditional backgrounds to get good grades in the right subjects and apply to our universities. Russell Group universities are investing huge amounts of resource, time and effort to try to help make this happen and close the access gap

"In 2015/16 our universities will spend £234 million from additional fee income alone on scholarships, fee waivers, bursaries and outreach work. We want those with the qualifications, potential and determination to succeed to have the opportunity to study at a leading university, irrespective of their background.

“Prospective students know a good degree from a good university remains a sound investment for the vast majority.  Ten of the top 30 universities in the world, as ranked by employers, are Russell Group universities.

“Money worries shouldn’t stop anyone from applying: there are no up-front fees, repayments are only made when they’re affordable and there is generous help with living costs. If you’re good enough to get in, you can afford to go.”

Notes to Editors

1. The percentage of students from disadvantaged backgrounds being admitted to higher tariff universities has gone up by 40 % since 2011. The entry rate of Free School Meals pupils to higher tariff providers has increased by around 50 per cent proportionally between 2011 and 2014. There have also been increases in the percentages of students being admitted from all minority ethnic backgrounds.
2. Russell Group universities are working in different ways to break down social and economic barriers and reach out to young people, encouraging them to aspire to top flight institutions. Read more about their work here.
3. Read our Informed Choices guide to choosing advanced-level subjects (such as A-levels and Highers).

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