Gap Year News Articles

Students urged to take a Year Out

9th Sept 2010

British students who are unable to get a University place are being urged to take a year off rather than sign up for unsuitable courses as the shortage of UK university places continues to impact.

Johnny Rich, editor of the Push University Guide, told the Daily Telegraph that a shortage of last-minute places - traditionally distributed via 'clearing' - could force applicants to make the wrong choice, leading to a rise in drop-out rates.

He said: "Snapping up a place in clearing may get you into university, but if it's not what you want, you may leave with huge debts and no degree. You'd be better off waiting a year or two until you can get the place you want."

The comments come in the wake of a Daily Telegraph survey of UK higher education establishments which found the number of places available through clearing was likely to plummet by up to 50 per cent this year. The threat of fines for institutions which recruit beyond designated limits combined with a record number of applicants is adding to the pressure on places.