UK University Acceptance Rates

A couple of years ago, the StudentCrowd team identified an increasing trend of Google searches for “university acceptance rate”. Between March 2013 and March 2022, this graph shows searches increased by 1050% over the 9 year period.
Here at StudentCrowd, we love helping students in their higher-education decision making. To provide more information for prospective students, we decided to source and publish the top 50 university acceptance rates data.
What is a university acceptance rate?
A university acceptance rate, according to UCAS, is the number of applicants who are accept their place onto a university course.
Specifically, this is the percentage of applicants who meet their offer entry requirements and choose to enrol at the university they applied for.
The acceptance rate should not be confused with the offer rate, which is the number of students that receive an offer from the university.
We used the latest available data, published by UCAS on the 9th of December 2021, to create the list below.
The data captures applications and acceptances of UK students in June 2021. The acceptance rate statistic is calculated by dividing by the number of applicants by the number of acceptances.
Looking for 2021 acceptance rates?
Why are students searching for it?
University acceptances rates help to indicate which universities students are considering the best option for them. A higher university acceptance rate shows that a higher number of applicants accepted that university’s offer.
For students who meet the entry requirements for multiple universities, the university they select is the institution that they believe has the highest quality course, location, campus facilities, career opportunities and more.
However, the statistic is impacted by the number of applicants per university space.
As this is a key deciding factor for prospective students, we display this data on our university profile pages. This means that students can see the acceptance rates and offer rates, alongside the total number of applicants and acceptances.
Here are the 50 UK universities with the highest acceptance rates:

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Falmouth University
“Completed my first year at Falmouth University and I loved every minute of it, a very kind environment and lovely people all around.”
In June 2021 there were 4,560 applicants to Falmouth University. 1,755 students accepted their offer which results in a 38.49% applicant acceptance rate.
“We know that prospective students consider a number of options before making a decision on which university is right for them. We’re extremely proud of the Falmouth academic experience and our facilities, the inspirational Cornish landscape surrounding us and the welcoming, inclusive community here. We try to make the application process as easy and supportive as possible – giving all applicants a named contact, providing online Q&As and regional interviews. It’s great to see this reflected in our high acceptance rates.” - Justin Scott, Chief Marketing Officer at Falmouth University
https://www.studentcrowd.com/university-l1003912-s1008565-bishop_grosseteste_university-lincoln

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Bishop Grosseteste University
“Uni feels like such a personalised and homely experience, and the lecturers couldn’t do more to help you if they tried."
In June 2021 there were 1,440 applicants to Bishop Grosseteste University. 540 students accepted their offer which results in a 37.5% applicant acceptance rate.
"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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Ulster University
“Very good university! Have enjoyed studying here over the last 4 years.”
In June 2021 there were 13,495 applicants to University of Ulster. 4950 students accepted their offer which results in a 36.68% applicant acceptance rate.

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Norwich University of the Arts (NUA)
“Wide range and opportunities and experience available to all students, as well as guidance.”
In June 2021 there were 2,690 applicants to Norwich University of the Arts. 900 students accepted their offer which results in a 33.46% applicant acceptance rate.
"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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University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD)
“great uni, well-established, beautiful historical building, good for improving career outlook.”
In June 2021 there were 2,420 applicants to University of Wales (Trinity Saint David). 750 students accepted their offer which results in a 30.99% applicant acceptance rate.
“We are delighted that the percentage of students who accept a place on one of our programmes is among the highest in the UK. UWTSD has a strong track record for the quality of the student experience and for the range of support services we provide to our students in partnership with our Students’ Union. As a multi-campus university with a broad portfolio of programmes, we work with our partners to widen access and increase participation in higher education, ensuring that students from all backgrounds are given the opportunity to achieve their potential.” - Professor Medwin Hughes, DL, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Wales Trinity Saint David.

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Queen's University Belfast
“Great university to study at. Staff are very friendly and helpful. Su is also great craic. Student advice service is also helpful.”
In June 2021 there were 13,470 applicants to Queen's University of Belfast. 4,130 students accepted their offer which results in a 30.66% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of the Highlands and Islands (UHI)
“Great university, studied here over a number of years via distance learning. Amazing value for money, great staff and lecturers. Scotland is amazing and I would have loved the chance to attend the campus more. Studied at Inverness and the lecturers were amazing and nationally recognised SMEs. Very supportive as well”
In June 2021 there were 3,490 applicants to University of the Highlands and Islands. 1,030 students accepted their offer which results in a 29.51% applicant acceptance rate.

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Abertay University
“Overall a great university, well managed even in difficult times with covid.”
In June 2021 there were 3,920 applicants to Abertay University (Dundee). 1,080 students accepted their offer which results in a 27.55% applicant acceptance rate.
“Abertay offers a wide range of high quality degree programmes that are tailored to prepare our students to go into the world of work or onto further study. We pride ourselves on offering a first-rate student experience and excellent teaching, and we achieve this by listening closely to the views of our students across each academic year and using their feedback to direct continuous improvement in all that we do. When applicants begin their journey with us they love finding out about our friendly and welcoming culture, our city centre campus and all that’s on offer in the fantastic and vibrant city of Dundee, including the world-class V&A Dundee Museum of Design. Abertay is a true community and we’re exceptionally proud of that ethos which has been built around the achievements of our students, staff and graduates - something that really shines through for applicants when selecting their university.” - Professor Liz Bacon, Principal & Vice-Chancellor of Abertay University.

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Cardiff Metropolitan University
“outstanding university in cardiff, great city with lots to do.”
In June 2021 there were 8,895 applicants to Cardiff Metropolitan University. 2,425 students accepted their offer which results in a 27.26% applicant acceptance rate.

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Harper Adams University
“the uni is great with a great amount of courses to choose from.”
In June 2021 there were 2,340 applicants to Harper Adams University. 635 students accepted their offer which results in a 27.14% applicant acceptance rate.
“It is great news to see this top ten placing, and to know that students are showing their confidence in Harper Adams in this fashion. From the moment they accept their place, our students can know they are working on some of the most crucial issues our planet faces. From their degrees, our students go on to key roles across a diverse range of agri-food, veterinary and related organisations – working to provide the world with high-quality, sustainable food and taking on some of the most important global challenges we all face. However, it’s important that we offer them the facilities, teaching, opportunities and more they need to make the most of their studies – and so listening to our students and their views, whether that’s through the work of sites like the Student Crowd, or directly one-on-one, is important. That’s why I make time to talk to our new and returning students in person each term – and why league tables such as this, which show the value that students place upon their experiences with us, are so crucial.” - Professor Ken Sloan, Vice-Chancellor of Harper Adams University.

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Canterbury Christ Church University
“I love my uni it has nice vibes and good energy.”
In June 2021 there were 8,780 applicants to Canterbury Christ Church University. 2,380 students accepted their offer which results in a 27.11% applicant acceptance rate.

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Northumbria University
“Lots of student facilities available on campus with a positive working/social life.”
In June 2021 there were 19,565 applicants to Northumbria University. 5,180 students accepted their offer which results in a 26.48% applicant acceptance rate.

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Robert Gordon University
“Very good course, practical and teaches you real world stuff not just all theory."
In June 2021 there were 7,350 applicants to Robert Gordon University. 1,935 students accepted their offer which results in a 26.33% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Worcester
“Great uni, can tell they actually care about the students.”
In June 2021 there were 8,080 applicants to University of Worcester. 2,095 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.93% applicant acceptance rate.

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Buckinghamshire New University
“University is good they take so much care of you and did help me in this difficult time, they deserve a lot of credit how they help their students."
In June 2021 there were 6,530 applicants to Buckinghamshire New University. 1,680 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.73% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of the Arts London (UAL)
“good, UAL is trying to give students best service, tutors are friendly, environment is nice, facility is good... etc”
In June 2021 there were 12,535 applicants to University of the Arts London. 3,195 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.49% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of South Wales (Prifysgol De Cymru)
“Enjoyed my time here, many professional creative facilities to use like studios :)”
In June 2021 there were 8,590 applicants to University of South Wales. 2,160 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.15% applicant acceptance rate.

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Staffordshire University
“Really good university experience. Definitely recommend staffs to students looking into higher education.”
In June 2021 there were 11,190 applicants to Staffordshire University. 2,805 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.07% applicant acceptance rate.

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Bangor University
“Nice environment and good research university.”
In June 2021 there were 7,290 applicants to Bangor University. 1,825 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.03% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of the West of Scotland (UWS)
“Speaking from personal experience, extremely helpful and supportive staff looking after and requirements of students however they can.”
In June 2021 there were 14,875 applicants to University of West Scotland. 3,720 students accepted their offer which results in a 25.01% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Cumbria
"The uni campus is nice, the bar is a good place to sit and get some food between lectures and the learning gateway is open in late hours to study"
In June 2021 there were 3,955 applicants to University of Cumbria. 985 students accepted their offer which results in a 24.91% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Gloucestershire
“A good university with interesting courses and many opportunities for future career.”
In June 2021 there were 7,620 applicants to University of Gloucestershire. 1,860 students accepted their offer which results in a 24.41% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Suffolk
Lovely and modern university. All necessary equipment is available for students, any problems are resolved quickly, and tutors are as helpful as possible.
In June 2021 there were 3,305 applicants to University of Suffolk. 805 students accepted their offer which results in a 24.36% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Lincoln
“Amazing staff, super friendly people. Would recommend Lincoln to anyone."
In June 2021 there were 13,650 applicants to University of Lincoln. 3,190 students accepted their offer which results in a 23.37% applicant acceptance rate.

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Liverpool John Moores University
“Its a good university with good level of education and thoughtful of their students.”
In June 2021 there were 28,165 applicants to Liverpool John Moores University. 6,525 students accepted their offer which results in a 23.17% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Plymouth
“Plymouth University has a very good reputation and has very understanding professors”
In June 2021 there were 16,850 applicants to University of Plymouth. 3,870 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.97% applicant acceptance rate.

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UWE Bristol
“Great social experience !! Great lecturers and courses!”
In June 2021 there were 28,010 applicants to UWE Bristol. 6,405 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.87% applicant acceptance rate.

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Durham University
“A good place and I love the lake, especially the sunset!”
In June 2021 there were 21,410 applicants to Durham University. 4,895 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.86% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Sunderland
“Great facilities and support for the students here.”
In June 2021 there were 7,195 applicants to University of Sunderland. 1,645 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.86% applicant acceptance rate.

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Glasgow Caledonian University
“Has some of the most amazing facilities and the staff are engaging and easy to talk to. I have learned invaluable skills throughout my time here and I am sad to be graduating”
In June 2021 there were 15,520 applicants to Glasgow Caledonian University. 3,465 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.33% applicant acceptance rate.

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Nottingham Trent University
“I have had the best time at Nottingham Trent, the feel of community is immense and I wish I could stay as a student here forever”
In June 2021 there were 40,580 applicants to Nottingham Trent University. 8,975 students accepted their offer which results in a 22.12% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Winchester
“I loved my time at Winchester uni!! The tutors for my course were amazing and really believe in you. You get treated like an adult and respected like an individual. Would highly recommend!!!!”
In June 2021 there were 9,100 applicants to University of Winchester. 1,995 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.92% applicant acceptance rate.

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Sheffield Hallam University
“The staff are very friendly, the location is good, and there are shops nearby, so it's very convenient to buy food”
In June 2021 there were 23,620 applicants to Sheffield Hallam University. 5,170 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.89% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Hull
"Having finished 4 years I can’t knock the universities facilities, funding or culture."
In June 2021 there were 9,580 applicants to University of Hull. 2,095 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.87% applicant acceptance rate.

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Solent University
“Very good university, lecturers are fantastic and hoping to return to campus soon”
In June 2021 there were 6,815 applicants to Solent University. 1,490 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.86% applicant acceptance rate.

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Heriot-Watt University
“Herriot-Watt university is an outstanding university, well organised, lots to offer to students”
In June 2021 there were 6,650 applicants to Heriot-Watt University. 1,445 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.73% applicant acceptance rate.

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Swansea University
“Excellent teaching. Good location. Good support when needed”
In June 2021 there were 16,815 applicants to Swansea University. 3,645 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.68% applicant acceptance rate.

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Anglia Ruskin University
“Great facilities and large range of societies. Students union always keep in touch with everyone and help you with any questions.”
In June 2021 there were 15,360 applicants to Anglia Ruskin University. 3,315 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.58% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Chichester
“Really personal, Chichester is a great town”
In June 2021 there were 7,365 applicants to University of Chichester. 1,585 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.52% applicant acceptance rate.

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Glyndwr University
"A small university but staff really care about their students"
In June 2021 there were 1,605 applicants to Glyndwr University. 340 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.18% applicant acceptance rate.

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Edge Hill University
“fantastic university, the facilities and SU seem great”
In June 2021 there were 14,905 applicants to Edge Hill University. 3,145 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.1% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Sussex
“I have really enjoyed my time at Sussex!!”
In June 2021 there were 14,975 applicants to University of Sussex. 3,155 students accepted their offer which results in a 21.07% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Salford
“Really great here, fantastic facilities, loads of green space and top notch accommodation.”
In June 2021 there were 21,145 applicants to University of Salford. 4,415 students accepted their offer which results in a 20.88% applicant acceptance rate.

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Aberystwyth University
“Aberystwyth University have amazing course options and excellent online resources”
In June 2021 there were 7,265 applicants to Aberystwyth University. 1,495 students accepted their offer which results in a 20.58% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Central Lancashire (UCLan)
"Uclan is fabulous. They are really supportive for students"
In June 2021 there were 16,800 applicants to University of Central Lancashire. 3,450 students accepted their offer which results in a 20.54% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of Exeter
“This University is really beautiful and I like that it’s close to the city and lots of shops. There are lots of courses available to students which means there is a course for everyone”
In June 2021 there were 32,135 applicants to University of Exeter. 6,555 students accepted their offer which results in a 20.4% applicant acceptance rate.

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University of East Anglia (UEA)
“I love my school. I encourage others to come study here.”
In June 2021 there were 14,540 applicants to University of East Anglia. 2,965 students accepted their offer which results in a 20.39% applicant acceptance rate.

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Edinburgh Napier University
“Deciding to study at Napier was the best decision I made the staff are lovely and very accommodating especially for people like myself who are disabled and need a bit of extra help.”
In June 2021 there were 15,215 applicants to Edinburgh Napier University. 3,095 students accepted their offer which results in a 20.34% applicant acceptance rate.

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Newcastle University
“so far my experience at newcastle university has been great. The campus is so nice and the lecturers are extremely helpful”
In June 2021 there were 24,335 applicants to Newcastle University. 4,895 students accepted their offer which results in a 20.12% applicant acceptance rate.

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Manchester Metropolitan University
“A really great university to study at. I was apprehensive before arriving as I didn't know what to expect, but the lecturers were super helpful and welcoming. I'm really glad I chose to come here.”
In June 2021 there were 45,905 applicants to Manchester Metropolitan University. 9,215 students accepted their offer which results in a 20.07% applicant acceptance rate.
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