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    2024 Exam Results: Key Observations and Trends Focused on the Tech Sector
    15 Aug 2024Policy & Research3 min read

    2024 Exam Results: Key Observations and Trends Focused on the Tech Sector

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    Source: UCAS 2024****Key Observations for the Tech Sector:

    • Growth in Tech Education: The consistent increase in computing placements reflects the rising demand for tech education and careers, with universities responding to the need for more graduates in this field.
    • International Applicant Trends: While there is a decline in international applicants from key Asian markets, the slight increase from the USA might indicate shifting patterns in global interest in UK tech education.
    • Young Demographic Focus: The surge in placed 18-year-olds, especially in tech-related subjects, indicates a younger demographic increasingly attracted to technology, which could lead to a more robust pipeline of tech talent in the coming years.

    These trends suggest a positive outlook for the tech sector, with growing interest and investment in tech education among young students, positioning the UK as a strong future contributor to the global tech industry

    The consistent growth in computing and tech-related subjects is a clear indicator that more young people are recognizing the importance and potential of a career in technology. This trend not only boosts the immediate talent pipeline entering the marketplace but also sets the stage for long-term growth and innovation in the UK tech industry. As these students progress into higher education and beyond, we can expect a significant influx of skilled professionals ready to meet the demands of an evolving digital landscape.General Overview:

    • Total Placed Applicants: There are 425,860 placed applicants in 2024, an increase of 10,920 (+2.6%) compared to 2023.

    • UK-Domiciled Applicants: The majority of these, 374,690, are UK-domiciled, representing a 3% increase from 2023.Domicile Trends:

    • International Applicants: There is a slight decrease in international applicants, with specific declines noted in applicants from China, India, Hong Kong, and Malaysia. However, the number of placed applicants from the USA has increased by 80 (+3.9%).Age Group Trends:

    • UK 18-Year-Olds: The number of placed 18-year-old applicants from the UK has risen by 13,060 (+5.7%), reaching 243,650. This reflects a growing trend of younger students entering higher education, with a record high entry rate of 31.7%.Subject Group Trends Relevant to Tech:

    • Computing: The computing subject group has seen a notable increase in placed applicants, with 28,370 students in 2024, up by 1,970 (+7.5%) from 2023. This marks a consistent increase each year since 2020, indicating strong and growing interest in tech-related fields.

    • Architecture, Building, and Planning: Another area with tech relevance, this subject group has 8,140 placed applicants, an increase of 650 (+8.6%), also setting a record high.Widening Participation:

    • POLAR4 Quintiles: The entry rate for applicants from the most disadvantaged areas (Q1) has increased, with 27,600 placed applicants. This suggests efforts to widen participation in higher education are seeing some success, although the gap between the most and least advantaged groups remains significant.Trends by Region:

    • Regional Entry Rates: London has the highest entry rate at 42.5%, with other regions like the South East and East of England also showing increases. This regional data suggests that while London remains a hub for higher education, there is growing participation across other regions as well.