More students applying to university later

The university is spread over four main campuses, in Wolverhampton, Walsall, Telford and Burton-upon-Trent

The University of Wolverhampton has said more A-level students in recent years have been deciding to apply later.

Last year saw a record number 18-year-olds across the UK secure a place at a college or university through clearing.

The system, run by charity Ucas, matches students with university and college courses which still have spaces.

Jack Clare, director of UK student recruitment at the University of Wolverhampton, said it was keen to sign up more students over the coming weeks.

While some are likely to be approaching clearing because they missed out on grades required by their first-choice university, others will be applying for the first time.

"We've seen that shift to students actually looking to apply and make decisions later," Mr Clare said.

The university is spread over four main campuses, in Wolverhampton, Walsall, Telford and Burton-upon-Trent.

Asked if it was short of students leading up to this point, Mr Clare said: "We are in a strong recruitment position, but clearly we do want to recruit students through this clearing period."

He said its nursing and pharmacy courses often particularly attracted interested at this time.

Mr Clare said the university had seen an increase in the number of students making enquiries via social media, live chat or WhatsApp.

"I think the first message is to stay calm, look into your options, speak to your advisors, speak to universities, look at those courses you're interested in," he said.

There was "a lot of advice and support right across the sector to help students make the right decision," he stated.