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 21: Breakdown of responses to Independence theme questions Up 2 from 2024 71 For the second year running, confidence is notably higher across each of the four areas, and this confidence appears to be widespread, with few demographic differences. Male applicants are more confident about living independently at university (78%) than female applicants. International applicants are more confident in all areas, including knowing where to go to access external support, despite not yet living in the UK. Applicants with a disability are somewhat less confident in most areas, but are equally confident about accessing external support this year. 7% 16% 24% 3% 50% The Independence score measures confidence in self-efficacy skills relevant to starting university, including ability to access support. 8% 17% 25% 4% 46% 7% 17% 28% 3% 45% 6% 15% 25% 3% 51% Unite Students | Applicant Index Report 29 INTRODUCTION THEMATIC ANALYSIS INDEPENDENCE METHODOLOGY TOPICAL ISSUES BACK TO THEMES