Withdrawing before enrolment About a third (32%) of applicants think it likely that they will not take up their place at university, however the majority of these only think it ‘somewhat likely’. Broadly, these feelings are more prevalent among male applicants and those who are aged 19 or over. There is no significant difference between UK and international applicants, though applicants who are ethnically Chinese (85% of which are international students from China) are much less likely to think they won’t take up their place, suggesting a higher level of uncertainty among other international student groups. These feelings are also more prevalent among care experienced and estranged applicants, those with a disability, health condition or neurodivergence, and LGB+ applicants. Data from the UCAS 2023 End of Cycle report shows that 26% of last year’s applicants were not placed, so we know not all applicants end up in higher education. Nonetheless, it is impossible to infer how many of those who think they might drop out of the applicant process will indeed do so. The overall strength of feeling – only ‘somewhat likely’ – suggests that, for many, these are concerns rather than strong doubts. Respondents were able to choose multiple reasons from a list, including an ‘other’ option. Financial issues are the most common reason closely followed by not achieving the required grades. However, lack of confidence, mental ill-health and homesickness were also significant. Mental ill-health was the most significant concern for applicants with a disability or mental health condition, neurodivergent applicants, estranged applicants and those who are LGB+. Figure 24: How likely is it that you will not go to university, for example because you withdraw your application or you don’t take up the place that is offered? Figure 25: If you don’t go to university, what is most likely to be the reason? Not at all likely Not likely Somewhat likely Likely Very likely Don’t know 40% 50% 60% 70% 80% 90% 100% 30% 20% 10% 0% 33% 32% 19% 9% 4 4 Financial issues 35% 30% 25% 20% 15% 10% 5% 0% Not achieving the grades you need Lack of confidence Mental ill-health Homesickness Physical ill-health Stories about university in the media Other / don’t know 32 27 22 21 15 13 10 5 Base: Applicants who think it likely that they will not go to university (704) Unite Students | Applicant Index Report 39 INTRODUCTION THEMATIC ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY TOPICAL ISSUES BACK TO CONTENTS