Universities Full After Record Applications

Over half of Scotland's universities have filled all their vacancies and will not be offering any places through the clearing system.

Following a large rise in applications and record exam results, 8 of the country's 15 universities have filled all their places already. The number of places available through clearing has fallen from around 2000 to several hundred, mostly concentrated at the University of Abertay in Dundee, the University of the Highlands and Islands, the University of the West of Scotland, and the Scottish Agricultural College.

Aspiring students who have not managed to secure a place will be considering their options. If they are unable to find a suitable course through clearing, they may intend to reapply next year. They might also consider undertaking some other education opportunity this year to enhance their prospects.

This means that it is more important than ever for learning providers to list the full range of their courses on the National Learning Opportunities Database. As many learners are intending to reapply next year, it is vital that universities and colleges upload next year's courses now so that learners can browse the options. We are introducing the XCRI Bulk Upload Facility to make it easier to do this.

Demand for education and training is at an all time high, and by keeping your information up to date, you can benefit. If you need any help with this, you can contact the Information Services team on info.services@sds.co.uk or 0141 285 6100.