Applications on the Up

Edge Hill is bucking the national trend according to recent applications figures.

While university applications are expected to fall for the first time in eight years, Edge Hill?s figures are up by an impressive 12%.

This drop across the sector coincides with the introduction of increased tuition fees, however the institution is experiencing a sharp rise in popularity with prospective students.

"These figures are obviously great news for Edge Hill which is in an exciting period of transition after recently being granted taught degree awarding powers," said Chief Executive John Cater. "In addition to our strong fees and bursary support package, our success in the National Student Survey and ambitious investment in facilities are just a few of the many factors that have contributed to yet another big rise in applications."

Edge Hill is ranked joint 5th in the country for overall satisfaction based on feedback from students polled last year, with nine out of ten subject areas ranked at, or above, the national average.

"Many institutions, ourselves included, recorded impressive application figures last year as students rushed into higher education before the increased tuition fees were introduced," added Mr Cater. "However there was always the fear that 2006 figures would drop accordingly and for many universities this has proven to be the case.

"The fact that the reverse has happened at Edge Hill is particularly pleasing as we look towards gaining university status in the very near future."

Edge Hill is spending half of its new fee income on bursaries with around 60% of students expected to benefit from 'non-repayable? cash.