Applications to Bournemouth University have dropped by 15.2% compared to the national average of 7.4%, according to figures released today.
The university however pointed out it had raised its entry requirements for 2012 although says it can be assumed fee rises are affecting numbers too.
It received a total of 19032 applications this year, compared to over 22400 in 2011, The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) revealed today.
Karen Pichlmann, BU’s Head of Admissions, said: “We are still encouraging quality candidates to apply for courses and we have an excellent financial support package available. For 2012 entry, BU is offering an academic achievement scholarship worth £3000 per year for applicants who achieve 3 Grade As at A level or equivalent.”
She said while it can be assumed that the new student funding arrangements are affecting the decision to go to university, it is also important to note that the university has raised its entry requirements and tariff points for 2012.
“We have attracted candidates with higher academic scholarship. Our statistics support this by showing that we rejected less candidates this year, despite the higher standards required.”
