Mon 31st October, 2011
Students should be at the heart of any proposed changes to the university admissions process. That’s the view of Professor Les Ebdon CBE DL, Vice Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire, as the University and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) releases a report which proposes a shift to a post-results admissions system.
UCAS has commissioned a review of the admissions process which is has been released today (Monday, 31 October). The report proposes that a system should be introduced whereby students apply once they have their results. The proposals could mean A-level exams starting two weeks earlier than at present.
Speaking as Chair of university think-tank million+ Professor Ebdon said: “The outcome of this consultation will be vitally important to future students who should be at the heart of the admissions system. The principle of post-qualification admissions has much to commend it but these proposals are more wide-ranging and potentially cover all applicants whether they intend to study full or part-time.
“Universities will need to consider how the proposals are likely to work operationally and whether there will be any unintended consequences including for students who apply to university with a wide range of pre-entry qualifications other than A-levels and Scottish Highers.”
The report also consults on a range of shorter term improvements to the current model. These include proposals which would enhance the applicant experience across the entire admissions process, while also delivering cost-savings and efficiencies for institutions.
The consultation process will remain open until 20 January 2012 with a report of the findings and proposed next steps to be published in March.
For full details visit www.ucas.com/admissionsprocessreview
Latest news» 2011» October» Bedfordshire VC comments on UCAS review findings
