University places for most deprived in Scotland at record high
The number of 18-year-olds from the most deprived areas in Scotland being offered a place at university is at a record high - up 32% since 2019, the last year there were exams.
The latest UCAS data also shows 29,630 Scottish domiciled students have been offered a place at a Scottish university on SQA results day – up 6% compared to 2019 and the second highest on record.
Separate statistics published by Skills Development Scotland (SDS) show that in the first quarter of 2022-2023, the number of Modern Apprenticeship starts is up 16% to 3,946 compared to last year.
Minister for Higher Education, Further Education, Youth Employment and Training Jamie Hepburn said: “These statistics are encouraging, particularly the fact we have a record number of 18-year-olds – the closest measure to school leavers - from the most deprived areas being offered a place at university. We want every young person in Scotland to have an equal chance of success, no matter their background or circumstances.
Read more
Latest News
27/01/2026 - 10:04
The government is running a tender for industry to co-create AI tutoring tools with teachers, with the goal of bringing these tools to a similar level of quality of personalised one to one support.
26/01/2026 - 10:40
The proposed Scottish Budget for 2026-27 commits up to £200 million to the Scottish Attainment Challenge.
26/01/2026 - 10:24
The Welsh Government has set out the key challenges facing tertiary education in Wales and has launched a call for evidence to help address these challenges.
23/01/2026 - 10:47
Almost half (45%) of school leaders needed mental health and well-being support in just a year, a new survey from union NAHT has found.
22/01/2026 - 10:44
The film, ‘The Lunch They Deserve’, seeks to focus the nation on the need for better school food standards before the provision of Free School Meals is extended.
