UK: University applications drop after fees hike

The number of British students applying to university has slumped by more than 15% amid a public backlash over a sharp hike in tuition fees, writes Graeme Paton for The Telegraph. Data from the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service also reveals a rapid decline in demand from European students who pay the same fees as their British peers.

Figures show that 133,357 candidates have so far applied to start degree courses in 2012, a drop of 23,759 compared with the same point last year.

From next summer, universities in England will charge up to £9,000 (US$14,145) a year, almost three times the current maximum. Institutions in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland can charge the same amount, although devolved governments will provide generous subsidies for their own students.
Full report on the Telegraph site

Meanwhile, Gareth Evans for the Western Mail writes that the number of Welsh students applying for a place at university has fallen. Data released by the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service revealed that there were 10.3% fewer applications last week than at the same time last year. In the second snapshot of 2012 trends, there were 5,592 applications from Welsh students - 642 down on the 2011 November intake.
Full report on the Wales Online site