More A-level students than ever before off to university and college
updated on 14 August 2014
This year’s A-level results have heralded a record number of students securing places on degree courses. By the end of the cycle, over 500,000 students are likely to have confirmed spots to study at university or college.
Before clearing opens, the total number of confirmed places is 396,990, with 352,590 of those representing students who have been accepted onto their first choice course. The majority of applicants are from England, with 292,650 students (up by 2%). There are 15,980 from Wales (up 5%), 11,110 from Northern Ireland (down 1%) and 27,910 from Scotland (up 4%). Furthermore, there are 103,970 students awaiting results or decisions (up 5%).
UCAS Track went live at 8:00am today and students were able to see whether they had been accepted onto their chosen course. Unsuccessful applicants can visit www.ucas.com for information about clearing, which will open at 5:00pm today.
Mary Curnock Cook, UCAS chief executive, said: "Today’s numbers are a reflection of the continuing strong demand for higher education. A combination of extra places available and the falling population of 18 year olds means that students are in a good position to secure a place this year." She went on: "Alongside the impressive numbers, this is also a story about individuals who have made a life-defining decision to invest in their personal growth and position themselves for a more fulfilling life and career."
