18 January 2008

University Applications Now Rising: But Fee Review Continues

Although official UCAS figures issued this week - detailing the number of full-time students accepted onto undergraduate courses - show a significant increase in Northern Ireland, a review of fees is still to proceed.

A significant drop was recorded in first year students enrolments two years ago following on from the introduction of fees and while this hasn't continued in the latest figures, which has seen a rise in Northern Ireland enrolments, the review has been ordered to look for trends.

Commenting on the most recent figures, Employment and Learning Minister, Sir Reg Empey, said: "The increase of 8.4% in the number of applicants accepted to Northern Ireland higher education institutions in the current academic year is both very positive and very welcome.

"It is significantly above the UK average of 5.8%. It is even more impressive when viewed against a reduction of around 5% in the number of 18 year olds in Northern Ireland available to apply to university.  

"In order for us to compete globally we need to ensure a constant flow of higher level skills into the labour market and the level of applications to study at university here is very encouraging.  

"As I have stated previously I am committed to carrying out a review of variable tuition fees in the next academic year and these statistics will help to inform that review," he concluded.

See: Uni Fees Too Dear?

(BMcC)