Care-experienced students receive no guidance when applying for university, report finds

Research conducted by UCAS has revealed the majority of students who have been in care receive no guidance when applying for higher education (HE). 

Released today, the ‘Next Steps’ report displays three in five people with experience of being in care are given no guidance when applying for HE, despite an increased interest in individuals wanting to go.

The report, which was published in partnership with the Unite Foundation, has analysed almost 9000 care-experienced people’s application for HE which were sourced through UCAS data.

Additionally, a survey was conducted of 500 applicants who shared a care background ahead of starting their studies this Autumn.

Fiona Ellison, Director of Unite Foundation said, ‘At the Unite Foundation, we have been working with care experienced students for over 10 years. We know from the students we work with that there are many barriers care experienced students face both getting to and completing university.

‘With three in five care-experienced students receiving no information about higher education options, we echo UCAS’ call to make pathways and support more visible to these young people.

‘We also welcome the call to gather and share data in this area, as this will help us to further understand and ultimately improve the university experience for those leaving care.’

The report found 68% of care-experienced applicants have positive expectations of going to university or college, with 64% of them excited about making a fresh start.

However, experts outline that despite mechanisms such as financial bursaries, year-round accommodation and mental health and disability support being in place, 60% of students receive little guidance when applying. 

Despite receiving limited help, care-experienced students’ decision about which university or college they attend is ‘strongly’ influenced by their support needs – 76% of students were found to favour institutions that offer mental health and well-being support.

Educational institutions are trying to help students that have previously been in care as in September, Sussex University rolled out the biggest ever bursary to people with a care background. 

Clare Marchant, UCAS Chief Executive said, ‘With growing numbers of applicants sharing experience of being in care, and welcome efforts from the HE sector and partners to increase access and participation for this group, there are plenty of positives to take from our findings.

‘Navigating your options when applying for a traditional undergraduate degree or apprenticeships can be daunting for any student but particularly for those who may not have family to turn to for advice.

‘Our report highlights that while care-experienced students have high expectations and motivations for HE, a large proportion have little awareness of the support mechanisms in place that can help their progression, lacking crucial information, advice and guidance to support their decision-making.’

Researchers have discovered the number of UK applicants that apply to university who come from a care background has almost doubled in 14 years – from 4,495 in 2008 to 8,930 in 2022.

Following their findings, UCAS have introduced new measures to make applying to HE easier for students that are leaving care. The organisation has introduced seven new questions to the application for 2023 entry onwards to allow students to flag their personal circumstances.

Photo by Mikael Kristenson