Insights from UCAS Early Deadline Statistics

We digest the main learnings from the recent statistics relating to the October 2023 UCAS early deadline.

In the dynamic landscape of university applications, staying abreast of the latest trends is crucial. UCAS, the central hub for higher education applications in the UK, recently released key findings from this year’s early application deadline (for Oxbridge and clinical courses), shedding light on shifts in both international and domestic application landscapes. This valuable information not only aids prospective students but also serves as a compass for those guiding them through the intricate application process.

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International Applications

One notable trend in international applications is the remarkable surge from China, witnessing a 31% increase compared to the previous year. This reflects not only the growing global interest in UK universities but also the enduring appeal of institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge. Moreover, the substantial uptick in applications from the USA and Singapore, up 9% from the previous year, underscores the universities' international allure.

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Domestic Applications

Within the UK, the overall number of applications has seen a significant 11% increase compared to 2020, a testament to the resilience of the education sector post-pandemic. However, it's crucial to note a nuanced perspective – a slight dip of 2% from last year, primarily driven by a decline in medicine applicants. This decline, while notable, does not overshadow the broader positive trend.

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Inclusivity in Admissions

The statistics also illuminate a shift in the socio-economic landscape of applicants. There is a noteworthy 7% increase in applicants from POLAR 4 quintile 1, representing the most disadvantaged backgrounds. This underscores the collective effort to make higher education accessible to a diverse range of students. On the other end of the spectrum, there's a very slight increase in numbers from POLAR 5 quintile 5, indicating ongoing efforts to ensure inclusivity across all demographics.

As we navigate these statistics, it's evident that the higher education landscape is evolving, presenting both challenges and opportunities. By staying informed about these trends, we empower ourselves to provide more effective guidance to students aspiring to join the ranks of esteemed institutions, particularly Oxford and Cambridge.

Oxbridge Admissions Advice

At Oxbridge Applications, we understand the unique challenges of preparing for Oxford and Cambridge interviews, and have been helping applicants prepare for them for almost 25 years. Need advice or guidance on a future Oxbridge application? Get in contact with our Oxbridge-graduate consultants for bespoke, impartial advice to help you succeed. Telephone 44 (0) 20 7499 2394 or email [email protected]