Paid work Cost concerns Figure 2: When thinking about the cost of going to university, Slightly more applicants have undertaken The cost of living while at university is the which of the following is of greatest concern to you? paid work this year (70%) compared to greatest single financial concern among last year (68%). They worked a range of applicants (42%) though one in five are weekly hours with the most common concerned about all the costs associated being 10-19 hours per week (44%), with university. Female applicants are however 9% were working more than more concerned than male applicants 6% 40 hours. Age is the most significant when it comes to living costs, and 9% of driver of higher levels of paid work, with male applicants are not concerned about no real independent demographic effect. any of the costs compared with 5% of 20% The lower level of paid work seen among female applicants. LGBTQ+ applicants last year was not International applicants pay a higher 42% replicated, with LGBTQ+ applicants being tuition fee, so it is unsurprising to find just as likely to have carried out part time that they are more concerned about this work this year. cost (23%) and around a quarter (24%) Applicants who have worked are more are concerned about all areas of cost. 14% likely to think they will have enough However, compared to UK applicants money to cover their costs in higher they are less likely to have living costs education, though there is no effect on as their primary concern. 17% the other three questions within the There are no significant differences in the Finance theme. profile of cost concern by socioeconomic group, but those who have qualified for free school meals are more likely to be concerned about all costs. Cost of living while at university Cost of your tuition fees Cost of learning resources All of these None of these Unite Students | Applicant Index Report 14