Independence I am confident about living independently at university I know where to go to access external support (healthcare etc) if I need it I feel confident about addressing issues related to my studies and living situation independently I feel confident in making decisions for myself Strongly disagree Moderately disagree Neutral Moderately agree Strongly agree Figure 18: Breakdown of responses to Independence theme questions Up 1 from 2023 69 This year, confidence is slightly up across all statements in this theme, with male applicants and international applicants being particularly confident. For example, three quarters (75%) of male applicants are confident about living independently at university compared to under two thirds (63%) of female applicants. Applicants with a disability, mental health condition or who are neurodivergent, and LGBTQ+ applicants, are less confident than their peers in each of these areas. 9% 18% 24% 5% 43% The Independence score measures confidence in self-efficacy skills relevant to starting university, including ability to access support. 9% 18% 26% 5% 41% 8% 21% 28% 4% 39% 7% 16% 27% 4% 46% Unite Students | Applicant Index Report 33 INTRODUCTION THEMATIC ANALYSIS INDEPENDENCE METHODOLOGY TOPICAL ISSUES BACK TO THEMES