Currently, there is a fierce competition for entry into universities through the clearing system as a record number of A-level students fight for a spot in their desired degree program. The results released today show that 26.7% of papers were given an A grade, which is an increase from last year, and that 97.5% of students passed. Three-quarters of entries received a grade of C or better, which is a first-time achievement. The results add pressure to the university admissions system, as the highest number of candidates have secured a place this year, resulting in 135,000 students qualifying for clearing. Due to this high number, there are only around six students for every available place, and this competition could turn universities into an environment dominated mainly by the middle classes. The government also faces scrutiny this morning for not funding extra places in the recession, despite its commitment to expanding higher education. As of 11 am, there were few places left available at elite institutions such as University College London, London School of Economics, and Imperial College. Still, some courses remain available at Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool universities. At some universities outside the Russell Group of research-intensive universities, there has been notable activity, with Birmingham City University already receiving almost 1,000 calls since its line opened at 6 am. Coventry University reported that its courses were filling up fast. Exam boards confirmed today that the gap between results from private and state schools is widening, with private schools seeing more than 50% of their A-level entries receiving an A grade. Despite the improvement in results, there are concerns that exam standards may be lowered, as the pass rate is nearing 100%. However, the gap between girls and boys narrowed by 0.3 percentage points, and fewer pupils appear to be opting for so-called soft subjects. There was an increase in the number of pupils taking maths and science-based subjects, such as economic and politics, with a decrease in entries for French and German. The director of the Joint Council for Qualifications praised the results and congratulated students and teachers for their hard work. The schools minister also defended the improvement in results, stating that post-16 education is no longer just for the elite but is accessible to all students.
Come and seek advice from Joy Mercer, our expert on exams, during her designated session starting at 2pm. Check out the comprehensive, grammar school, and college A-level 2009 tables to gain insights and compare results. Celebration is in order as one out of every four A-levels passed the stringent grade A threshold. Additionally, this year has seen record-breaking numbers of students achieving the grades necessary for university admission. For all incoming freshmen, take a look at The Fresher’s Guide that provides a wealth of information on how to navigate and make the most out of your university experience.
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