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UK University Acceptance Rates 2021

A few years ago, the StudentCrowd team noticed that the Google searches for “university acceptance rate” were increasing at a very high rate. This interactive graph shows searches grew by a whopping 1429% between March 2013 and March 2021.

We love to help students make big decisions about their higher education. So we decided to source and publish university acceptance rate data to help prospective students who search for this information.

Understanding the acceptance rate

The definition of the acceptance rate, according to UCAS, is the proportion of applicants who are accepted (placed) onto a university course.

In other words, the percentage of applicants who meet conditional requirements and ultimately choose to enrol at the university in question.

This stat should not be confused with the offer rate, which is defined as the percentage of applicants who received an offer from the university.

We used the latest available data, published by UCAS on the 16th of December 2020, to create the list below.

The data captures applications and acceptances of UK students in June 2020. The acceptance rate statistic is calculated by dividing by the number of applicants by the number of acceptances.

Why are students searching for it?

This part isn’t so easy to explain but here are some factors to bear in mind.

University acceptance rates can be an indicator of quality from the student perspective.

A higher acceptance rate indicates that a higher proportion of applicants accepted university offers.

For students who meet their conditional requirements, ultimately, they will accept an offer from the university that in their opinion, has the highest quality course, facilities, opportunities and more.

However, the statistic is exposed to other factors such as the number of applicants per university space.

Nevertheless, it is clear that prospective students are looking for this data (see 1429% increase in Google searches).

We show this information as a feature on each of our university profiles, so students can easily see the acceptance rate, total applicants, total acceptances and offer rate. Here’s an example.

Looking for 2019 acceptance rates?

So, without further ado, here are the 50 UK universities with the highest acceptance rates:

#01
#01

Bishop Grosseteste University (BGU)

The university is stunningly beautiful, the campus is small with great facilities and friendly staff.

"At Bishop Grosseteste University we understand how big a decision choosing a university is for potential students. We therefore do everything we can to create an application process that is not only simple but speaks to the needs of individuals. We provide a wide array of opportunities for applicants to experience the BGU community and engage with staff, students and academics including our Masterclass weeks, residential Summer Schools and Open Days. Our Admissions Team also utilise a range of technologies such as Live Chats and Whatsapp messaging meaning they are always on hand to answer any questions applicants might have. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that students succeed both academically and personally whilst they study with us and we are incredibly proud of the university experience we offer. To know that this hard work is marking us out as one of the most in demand institutions in the country is very rewarding." - Reverend Canon Professor Peter Neil, Vice-Chancellor of Bishop Grosseteste University

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#02
#02

Ulster University

Excellent place to live and study

In June 2020 there were 12,530 applicants to University of Ulster. 5,075 students accepted their offer which results in a 40.5% applicant acceptance rate.

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#03
#03

Falmouth University

Brilliant campus filled with so many opportunities

In June 2020 there were 4,310 applicants to Falmouth University. 1,570 students accepted their offer which results in a 36.43% applicant acceptance rate.

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#04
#04

Queen's University Belfast (QUB)

Good university with lots of student societies

In June 2020 there were 12,490 applicants to Queen's University of Belfast. 4,500 students accepted their offer which results in a 36.03% applicant acceptance rate.

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#05
#05

University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD)

Wonderful place to study. Great tutors, great facilities...

In June 2020 there were 2,335 applicants to University of Wales (Trinity Saint David). 830 students accepted their offer which results in a 35.55% applicant acceptance rate.

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#06
#06

Norwich University of the Arts

NUA has great facilities all across campus, with just about anything needed to complete your work, including industry standard materials and software.

"NUA is proud of its gold-rated reputation for teaching excellence and award-winning facilities and campus. We’re a welcoming and specialist community of makers and creators with a shared passion for the art, experiences and materials we produce. It's been said that NUA is big enough to be known on the national and international stage, but small enough for everyone here to know your name. We believe that an essential ingredient of our success is portfolio interviews. We want to get to know applicants and help them get to know us. Coming to Norwich and NUA is an important early chance to meet and engage with the course team and a great opportunity to see our community at work. We’re convinced that when applicants meet us and visit our campus and our city, they know they’re making the right choice for their future." - Paul Hill, Head of Communications, Norwich University of the Arts

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#07
#07

Buckinghamshire New University

Lovely friendly university. Lots of support offered to students especially during covid times. Lots of people to talk to

In June 2020 there were 5,610 applicants to Buckinghamshire New University. 1,835 students accepted their offer which results in a 32.71% applicant acceptance rate.

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#08
#08

Canterbury Christ Church University

Amazing experience and extremely supportive lectures

In June 2020 there were 8,430 applicants to Canterbury Christ Church University. 2,745 students accepted their offer which results in a 32.56% applicant acceptance rate.

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#09
#09

University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)

Amazing value for money, great staff and lecturers.

In June 2020 there were 3,310 applicants to University of the Highlands and Islands. 1,040 students accepted their offer which results in a 31.42% applicant acceptance rate.

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#10
#10

Robert Gordon University (RGU)

Lots to get involved in, great careers services

In June 2020 there were 6,680 applicants to Robert Gordon University. 2,080 students accepted their offer which results in a 31.14% applicant acceptance rate.

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#11
#11

Cardiff Metropolitan University

Good facilities and opportunities. Great careers service. Welcoming, friendly campus...

In June 2020 there were 7,795 applicants to Cardiff Metropolitan University. 2,365 students accepted their offer which results in a 30.34% applicant acceptance rate.

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#12
#12

Abertay University (Dundee)

A great university where all the students and staff are close knit.

In June 2020 there were 3,410 applicants to Abertay University (Dundee). 1,010 students accepted their offer which results in a 29.62% applicant acceptance rate.

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#13
#13

Staffordshire University

An awesome community and university with good lecturers.

In June 2020 there were 9,960 applicants to Staffordshire University. 2,880 students accepted their offer which results in a 28.92% applicant acceptance rate.

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#14
#14

Bangor University

It’s a nice and relatively small university, good access with some great surrounding areas to explore.

In June 2020 there were 5,585 applicants to Bangor University. 1,610 students accepted their offer which results in a 28.83% applicant acceptance rate.

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#15
#15

University of Suffolk

Great university, excellent tutors, supportive student union, great parking space.

In June 2020 there were 3,220 applicants to University of Suffolk. 895 students accepted their offer which results in a 27.8% applicant acceptance rate.

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#16
#16

University of Gloucestershire

Felt really welcome, very well organized university. Very fast improving.

In June 2020 there were 6,985 applicants to University of Gloucestershire. 1,930 students accepted their offer which results in a 27.63% applicant acceptance rate.

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#17
#17

Edge Hill University

The campus is modern and everything is conveniently located, the facilities are outstanding along with the accommodation one of the best in the UK.

In June 2020 there were 13,565 applicants to Edge Hill University. 3,725 students accepted their offer which results in a 27.46% applicant acceptance rate.

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#18
#18

University of the West of Scotland (UWS)

Good experience , nice lecturers and I love the campus facilities and the staff. Definitely recommend

In June 2020 there were 13,795 applicants to University of West Scotland. 3,765 students accepted their offer which results in a 27.29% applicant acceptance rate.

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#19
#19

University of Hull

The last 3 years at the University of Hull were fantastic, the campus facilities were extensive ranging from places to eat to the massive library which was the perfect place to get a quiet moment to study.

In June 2020 there were 8,885 applicants to University of Hull. 2,395 students accepted their offer which results in a 26.96% applicant acceptance rate.

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#20
#20

Northumbria University

Had the perfect experience here, great facilities for studying and staff are very helpful

In June 2020 there were 18,075 applicants to University of Northumbria. 4,815 students accepted their offer which results in a 26.64% applicant acceptance rate.

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#21
#21

University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)

Open and spacious, plenty of social facilities and the studying facilities are also great

In June 2020 there were 15,900 applicants to University of Central Lancashire. 4,150 students accepted their offer which results in a 26.1% applicant acceptance rate.

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#22
#22

University of South Wales (Prifysgol De Cymru)

This uni has been nothing but welcoming to me... the teaching is to a great standard. I've felt at home at this uni...

In June 2020 there were 8,195 applicants to University of South Wales. 2,130 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.99% applicant acceptance rate.

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#23
#23

Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU)

I really enjoy studying at LJMU. The staff and students are really welcoming and helpful... The support you receive from lecturers and peers is great.

In June 2020 there were 25,310 applicants to Liverpool John Moores University. 6,525 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.78% applicant acceptance rate.

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#24
#24

Wrexham University

Tutors are great on my course very supportive and have so much background experience... Brand new study areas popping up across the campus too which are modern and a great place to work or socialize.

In June 2020 there were 1,480 applicants to Glyndwr University. 380 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.68% applicant acceptance rate.

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#25
#25

University of the Arts London (UAL)

Ual is a great school that will help you foster your creativity and passion for whatever discipline you wish to go into.

In June 2020 there were 11,765 applicants to University of the Arts London. 3,020 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.67% applicant acceptance rate.

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#26
#26

Harper Adams University

As a recent graduate I cannot think of a better place to study, the teaching and support staff are fantastic. They are on hand to help you with any academic concerns you have throughout all years of study...

In June 2020 there were 1,870 applicants to Harper Adams University. 480 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.67% applicant acceptance rate.

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#27
#27

University of Cumbria

I did my MBA at Cumbria and loved every minute. The in-residence was the highlight... I highly recommend it besides being an affordable university to attend for furthering an executive education.

In June 2020 there were 3,630 applicants to University of Cumbria. 925 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.48% applicant acceptance rate.

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#28
#28

University of Winchester

great experience, love winchester and the staff, highly recommend if you like a quiet city!

In June 2020 there were 8,535 applicants to University of Winchester. 2,105 students accepted their offer which results in a 24.66% applicant acceptance rate.

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#29
#29

University of Worcester

As a mature student who lived off campus, I found the University very good... The facilities and Internet were fine never had any problems...

In June 2020 there were 8,215 applicants to University of Worcester. 2,025 students accepted their offer which results in a 24.65% applicant acceptance rate.

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#30
#30

University of Lincoln

It’s the perfect university experience for those who don’t want to venture into a big city. Modern campus with the beauty and depth of a historic city...

In June 2020 there were 14,925 applicants to University of Lincoln. 3,640 students accepted their offer which results in a 24.39% applicant acceptance rate.

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#31
#31

University of Sunderland

An excellent university! I’m rather impressed with most things here, the campus and facilities are good. No particular issues with internet or wifi.

In June 2020 there were 6,570 applicants to University of Sunderland. 1,600 students accepted their offer which results in a 24.35% applicant acceptance rate.

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#32
#32

Glasgow Caledonian University

Fantastic university! The campus is wonderful and modern. It has great facilities and is beautiful. Very sad that I was not visit the campus more often because of the pandemic...

In June 2020 there were 14,220 applicants to Glasgow Caledonian University. 3,430 students accepted their offer which results in a 24.12% applicant acceptance rate.

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#33
#33

University of Salford

Nice campus and overall a good University, the careers service is very helpful, the student union is a top place to go, and the library is good for studying.

In June 2020 there were 20,285 applicants to University of Salford. 4,890 students accepted their offer which results in a 24.11% applicant acceptance rate.

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#34
#34

Sheffield Hallam University

So happy I chose to come to Sheffield Hallam. There is a great community and some amazing facilities in the art building where I am based. The staff are also great if you need anything

In June 2020 there were 24,145 applicants to Sheffield Hallam University. 5,700 students accepted their offer which results in a 23.61% applicant acceptance rate.

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#35
#35

University of Chichester

A fairly small Uni, but they really care about individuals. Such a lovely environment to be in.

In June 2020 there were 5,740 applicants to University of Chichester. 1,355 students accepted their offer which results in a 23.61% applicant acceptance rate.

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#36
#36

Nottingham Trent University (NTU)

Really great university with lots of facilities catered to students. As an art student I enjoyed the printing facilties in waverly and at the print shop as well as the range of content at the library

In June 2020 there were 37,980 applicants to Nottingham Trent University. 8,855 students accepted their offer which results in a 23.31% applicant acceptance rate.

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#37
#37

Swansea University

I had a few different uni’s on my list, and I can safely say picking Swansea University was the best choice I've made.

In June 2020 there were 13,530 applicants to Swansea University. 3,145 students accepted their offer which results in a 23.24% applicant acceptance rate.

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#38
#38

University of Cambridge

It's one of the top universities in the world, so the facilities and social experiences including talks, seminars and etc. by experts in different areas are really good.

In June 2020 there were 13,205 applicants to University of Cambridge. 3,040 students accepted their offer which results in a 23.02% applicant acceptance rate.

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#39
#39

UWE Bristol

During my first year in UWE Bristol I had a brilliant time in my course as there was always help from staff as well as there being really good facilities.

In June 2020 there were 24,930 applicants to UWE Bristol. 5,710 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.9% applicant acceptance rate.

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#40
#40

Solent University, Southampton

The lecturers are very helpful and usually available. The facilities are outstanding. Would definitely reccomend

In June 2020 there were 6,870 applicants to Southampton Solent University. 1,565 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.78% applicant acceptance rate.

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#41
#41

De Montfort University (DMU)

Fantastic faculty and really modern, clean buildings. Most of the staff really do care

In June 2020 there were 18,965 applicants to De Montfort University. 4,305 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.7% applicant acceptance rate.

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#42
#42

Aberystwyth University

The university is lovely. Staff are incredibly helpful and supportive. The students are are also really very nice. It's a safe environment to be a part of.

In June 2020 there were 5,610 applicants to Aberystwyth University. 1,270 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.64% applicant acceptance rate.

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#43
#43

University of Wolverhampton

Lovely uni. Walsall campus was small and just what I needed. Great gym and stuff, student union is great too.

In June 2020 there were 13,995 applicants to University of Wolverhampton. 3,160 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.58% applicant acceptance rate.

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#44
#44

University of East Anglia (UEA)

Very satisfied with my experience at UEA. I have completed both my BSc and MSc here and cannot complain at all about the level of education and support I have received. Would highly recommend.

In June 2020 there were 14,660 applicants to University of East Anglia. 3,285 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.41% applicant acceptance rate.

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#45
#45

Bournemouth University (BU)

I am amazed at the breadth of experience that my faculty staff have, this feeds into their lectures and research... The careers team are amazing and the university has adapted well to COVID-19...

In June 2020 there were 16,355 applicants to Bournemouth University. 3,655 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.35% applicant acceptance rate.

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#46
#46

University of Plymouth

Nice campus with modern buildings and lots of facilities available to students. Lots of interesting clubs and societies to choose from too.

Plymouth is known for the excellence of its teaching and research and particularly for the way in which it supports its students to be the very best they can. This, and the fabulous location in Britain’s Ocean City in Devon, presents a compelling and attractive choice for many students. The University is also well known for its strong sustainability credentials, including its world leading position in marine litter research, and is a destination of choice for those who care about the environment and who want to make a difference.

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#47
#47

University of Essex

Lovely, green campus with great facilities. The shops and restaurants have good variety. The award-winning SU consistently goes above and beyond in its support of the students. The student support staff are helpful and friendly.

In June 2020 there were 11,480 applicants to University of Essex. 2,555 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.26% applicant acceptance rate.

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#48
#48

Oxford Brookes University

I’m currently a second year & have had the best time at OBU so far. There’s a wide range of clubs & societies to choose from, as well as great academic support.

In June 2020 there were 14,515 applicants to Oxford Brookes University. 3,165 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.81% applicant acceptance rate.

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#49
#49

St Mary's University, Twickenham

Fantastic University, highly qualified academic staff who really support students

In June 2020 there were 4,220 applicants to St Mary's University, Twickenham. 920 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.8% applicant acceptance rate.

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#50
#50

University of Portsmouth

Portsmouth has a lively and friendly atmosphere, with great diversity and facilities on offer to staff, students as well as the general public...

In June 2020 there were 18,990 applicants to University of Portsmouth. 4,035 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.25% applicant acceptance rate.

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