University applications 3.5 per cent higher than last year

There has been a 3.5 per cent increase in applications to full-time university courses in the 2013 cycle, according to figures published by UCAS on 30 January. This is in comparison to the number who had applied at the same time—the 15 January deadline—last year.

However, the University and College Union notes that the number of applicants is down on 2011 figures, the year before tuition fees were increased. Its general secretary, Sally Hunt, said it would be a “real shame if ministers tried to use today’s minimal rise as vindication for their punitive polices”.