Increase in applications to Scottish universities

Photo: University of Glasgow

The most recent data published by UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service, show a steady increase in applications to Scottish universities across a range of demographics, including a record high of 18-year-old applicants over the last decade and a record high of SIMD20 applicants.

The total number of applicants has increased by 2% from the previous year, reaching 130,030, an increase of 2,510 individuals year-on-year, while the number of applicants from Scottish domiciles has risen by 1% from last year and is up by 3% since 2023. This equates to an additional 570 applicants compared to last year and an increase of 1,590 since 2023.

Particularly significant is the increase in applications from Scots aged 18 and under, which has grown by 5% year-on-year to 21,810. This marks an influx of 1,000 more young Scots aspiring to higher education.

However, the data also indicate a slight decline in demand from ‘mature’ Scots (aged 21 and over), which has decreased by 2% compared to the previous year.

International interest in Scottish higher education continues to rise, with a 4% increase in applications, adding 1,750 new applicants. This brings international applicant numbers to their highest level in the past decade.

While demand for nursing programmes remains steady, there has been an 11% year-on-year decrease in applications for midwifery courses. Similarly, applications for teacher training have dropped by 9% compared to the previous year.

Encouragingly, the number of applicants from SIMD20 areas, representing the most deprived regions in Scotland, has reached a record high. There are 210 more applicants from these regions compared to last year, making up 17.6% of all Scots applying to UK providers. This is a 0.3 percentage point increase year-on-year, the highest proportion seen in recent years.

Commenting on the statistics, Scottish Funding Council Chief Executive, Francesca Osowska, said:

“The latest statistics from UCAS underline the continuing appeal of Scottish universities, with a steady increase in applications across a range of demographics, including school leavers and learners from our most disadvantaged areas. They also demonstrate that Scotland continues to be an attractive destination for overseas students.

“In a highly competitive market, it is hugely encouraging to see the sector’s resilience and ongoing commitment to diversity and inclusion reflected in today’s report.”

The June deadline marks the end of the ‘Main Scheme’ application window whereby applicants can make up to five applications to full-time undergraduate courses at Higher Education Institutions (HEIs); after this point all new applications are automatically entered into Clearing.