Foreword 4 Thematic analysis Appendices Introduction Applicant Index Report 2026 Foreword The Applicant Index gives us an early view of the next student cohort and the choices they are making ahead of the new academic year. Now in its fifth year, the Index also allows us to see how those perspectives are evolving over time. While each cohort brings its own nuances, a clear picture has emerged of consistent ambition and a strong, enduring desire to go to university. This year’s findings show that applicants remain focused on the opportunities higher education can offer, but they are also weighing up those choices carefully. Financial considerations, confidence and access to support are all shaping their decisions. Many are adjusting their plans in response to those factors, but the wider student experience still matters a great deal to them. This year’s applicants are realistic about the pressures they may face. Confidence is slightly lower in several areas, from finances and wellbeing to social support and resilience, which makes the activities and services that help students feel connected and supported more important than ever. Over a third of applicants say they have missed learning because of their mental health, and some expect that to continue into higher education, with important implications for attendance, support, continuation and attainment across the sector. The data also reminds us that some students are starting higher education at more of a disadvantage than others. LGBTQ+ applicants, disabled and neurodivergent applicants, and those who are care experienced or estranged continue to report lower confidence and higher loneliness. Many will go on to thrive, but it is important that universities and their partners make sure that support and social programmes are genuinely inclusive. Over the last few years, I have been determined that Unite Students should keep strengthening the building blocks of a positive student experience and continue adapting to students’ changing needs. That includes continuing to invest in the Unite Foundation, which has supported more than 800 care‑experienced and estranged students since it was established in 2012, alongside further investment in resident experience and student support. This year’s applicants have ambition and determination in abundance, but they are also facing headwinds that are not of their making. Backing their success is an investment in the future, and a sign of confidence in the value of higher education. Joe Lister Chief Executive, Unite Students Joe Lister Chief Executive, Unite Students Belonging, equity and inclusion Back to contents