Record number of young people in Scotland heading to university following exam results

A record number of young people in Scotland have gained a place at university, new figures have shown.

Statistics released by university and college admission body Ucas show 17,350 17 and 18-year-olds will be admitted this year, compared to 16,650 last year.

The number of those from the most deprived backgrounds is also at its highest, at 2,060.

However, the gap in the proportion of those accepted from the most deprived areas compared with the most affluent remains pronounced, with 16% from the 20% of areas described as the most deprived being accepted compared to 43.6%

The total number of applicants from Scotland who secured a place at university this year actually fell compared to the figure for 2024, from 31,970 to 31,850, as a result of a decline in mature student applications.

Some 3,660 students are set to come from abroad – an increase from 3,480 from last year.

Dr Jo Saxton, chief executive of Ucas, said: “I’m delighted to see record numbers of young people in Scotland accept a place at university or college via Ucas this year.

“Today’s figures also show record numbers of accepted students aged 17 and 18 from the most disadvantaged backgrounds.

“This is testament to the tremendous efforts being made to support widening access to higher education in Scotland.

“Everyone at Ucas offers congratulations to those celebrating today and I would encourage any students considering higher education, even those who have yet to apply, to explore clearing.

“There are plenty of options for you to consider, with around 27,000 courses, including more than 2,700 at Scottish institutions.

“Ucas’s team of expert advisers are also on hand to answer any questions on the phone, on our website and on social media.”