Fees rise proves university deterrent

ALMOST half of teenagers are less likely to apply to university because of the tuition fee increase, with many considering other education options, according to a poll published today.

By The Newsroom

Published 23rd Jun 2011, 01:00 BST

Nearly a third of those questioned – 29 per cent – are looking at vocational training or apprenticeships, rather than a degree, according to a survey by City & Guilds.

One in four plans to go straight into a job, while 16 per cent are looking for an internship or work experience and another 16 per cent are said to be considering a gap year.

The poll questioned more than 1,000 14-19 year olds about their attitudes to qualifications and university. The findings show that 49 per cent will be less likely to apply for degree courses because of the Government’s plans to raise tuition fees to a maximum of £9,000 from next year. Two in five still believe having a degree is better than a vocational qualification but a third of those questioned said they believed the two were equally valuable.

Government