UCAS data shows rise in unconditional offers: The Sutton Trust responds

Commenting on new UCAS data showing a rise in the numbers of teenagers being given unconditional offers, Sir Peter Lampl, founder and chairman of the Sutton Trust, said:

“It’s seriously concerning that unconditional offers have increased at such a sharp rate over the past five years. It means that universities are likely to put more weight on students’ predicted grades. Our research has shown that disadvantaged students are more likely to have their grades under-predicted.”

“We want to move to a post-qualification applications system where students apply only after they have received their A-level results.  This does away with predicted grades and unconditional offers.  Having actual grades on application empowers the student.  They can pick the right course at the right university with a high degree of certainty they are making the right choice.”

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NOTES TO EDITORS

• The Sutton Trust is a foundation set up in 1997, dedicated to improving social mobility through education. It has published over 200 research studies and funded and evaluated programmes that have helped hundreds of thousands of young people of all ages, from early years through to access to the professions.