University applications at all-time high

Ucas figures have shown that applications to university are at an all-time high.

583,501 candidates chasing a place this autumn, according to data from from the universities and colleges admission service. This shows a 5.1% rise and is the highest number since it started collecting data in 1964.

This change reflects a rush to attend university before fees almost triple in English universities from next year. This year, fees go up to £3,375 a year, but by 2012 universities will be allowed to charge as much as £9,000.

It is predicted that at least 180,000 applicants will be disappointed and left without a place. There are just over 400,000 places available for undergraduate study each year.

Ministers funded an extra 10,000 places for undergraduates starting at English universities last year amid a dramatic increase in applications, but fierce competition still saw one in three candidates missing out.

The government will continue to fund an extra 10,000 places this year, but this provision will be withdrawn by 2012.

David Willetts, the universities minister, said the government understood how frustrating it was for young people who wished to go to university but were unable to find a place.

"Going to university has always been a competitive process and not all who apply are accepted," he said. "We are opening up other routes into a successful career. Our reforms will make part-time university study more accessible and we are also investing in new apprenticeship places, with an additional 75,00 being created by 2014."