Motivations for higher education This year has seen a further development of the post-pandemic changes seen in last year’s survey. Moving away from home is becoming a stronger motivator, alongside other people’s expectations, whereas interest in the chosen subject continues to decline in importance. State school applicants were more likely to be motivated by long-term financial stability than those who attended fee paying schools. Figure 24: What are your top motivations for going to university? Comparison of 2019 with 2024 and 2025 responses* 50% 60% 40% 30% 20% 10% To gain a higher level of education 0% 52% 45% 44% I need a degree to get the job I want 42% 37% 39% Interest in my chosen subject 52% 35% 32% To achieve long-term financial stability 36% 30% 31% To become more independent 27% 27% 29% To meet new people 23% 20% 22% My family expects/expected it 11% 16% 17% Moving away from home 11% 14% 16% To study in the UK 10% 11% 7% Most of my friends are/were going 5% 7% 8% My school or college expects/expected it 4% 7% 8% 2019 2024 2025 *Respondents could select up to 3 choices. Unite Students | Applicant Index Report 33 INTRODUCTION THEMATIC ANALYSIS METHODOLOGY TOPICAL ISSUES BACK TO CONTENTS