Spike in poor quitting uni

THE university drop-out rate among students from poorer homes has hit a five-year high.

The figure in 2014/15 was 8.8%, up from 8.2% the year before and the highest level since 2009/10. Most walk away after a year, the Office for Fair Access said.

Data also shows chances of getting at least a 2:1 depend on a student’s ethnic background. Offa director Les Ebdon said: “I am concerned universities are doing enough to support students from different backgrounds.”