Are the UK's top universities really 'hoovering up' students?
Summary
A record number of UK 18-year-olds have been accepted into university in 2026, with the biggest increase at the most selective universities, such as those in the Russell Group. These universities say they remain highly selective, even if they show some flexibility in admissions, while university leaders say taking more students helps keep courses running and staff employed.Key Facts
- University acceptances for 18-year-olds in the UK reached a record high in 2026.
- Higher-tariff (most selective) universities increased student acceptances by 5.5% compared to last year.
- Medium-tariff universities saw a 3.8% increase in acceptances, while lower-tariff universities experienced a 1.7% drop.
- Selective universities say they maintain standards and only admit students who can succeed.
- Universities are admitting more students partly to keep less popular courses open and avoid job cuts.
- There has been a significant drop in international postgraduate students who pay higher fees.
- The University of Manchester received over 100,000 applications in 2026, a 13% increase.
- Some students received university offers despite missing their original grade targets, thanks to admissions flexibility.
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