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University Acceptance Rates

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What The Bedford Sixth Form Students Need to Know

For students at The Bedford Sixth Form planning to apply to university, understanding university acceptance rates can be the first step to making informed decisions. Whether you’re aiming for Oxford, Manchester, or a Russell Group university, knowing how acceptance rates work—and what they mean for your application—can give you a real edge.

🎯 What Are University Acceptance Rates?

University acceptance rates are the percentage of applicants who are offered a place at a particular university or on a specific course. For example, if a university receives 10,000 applications and makes 2,000 offers, the acceptance rate is 20%.

They reflect how competitive a university or course is—but don’t panic! A lower acceptance rate doesn’t mean you can’t get in. It just means your application needs to stand out.

📊 Average UK University Acceptance Rates in 2025

While acceptance rates change slightly every year, here’s a rough idea of what to expect based on recent UCAS data:

University Approximate Acceptance Rate
University of Oxford ~17%
University of Cambridge ~18%
University of Edinburgh ~23%
University of Manchester ~56%
University of Birmingham ~74%
De Montfort University ~85%
University of Northampton ~87%

💡 Tip: A higher acceptance rate doesn’t mean the university is “worse”—it may just offer more places or have less competition for certain courses.

📍 How This Impacts The Bedford Sixth Form Students

At The Bedford Sixth Form, we’re proud to support students from all academic backgrounds. Whether you’re applying to a highly competitive medical programme or a creative arts course, your success depends on more than just acceptance stats.

What really matters is:

  • Achieving strong predicted grades
  • Crafting a compelling personal statement
  • Gaining relevant work experience or extracurriculars
  • Meeting deadlines and entry requirements
🧠 How to Improve Your University Application

Here are five quick ways The Bedford Sixth Form students can boost their chances:

1) Start Early: Begin researching universities and courses by Year 12.

2) Attend Open Days: Ask questions and show interest—it can pay off later.

3) Get Support: Make the most of personal tutor sessions and careers advice.

4) Polish Your Personal Statement: Tell your unique story—why you, why this course?

5) Practice Interview Skills: Especially important for competitive courses like Medicine or Law.

🧭 Final Thoughts: Choose the Right Fit

University isn’t just about prestige—it’s about the right course, support, and environment for you. At The Bedford Sixth Form, we help students choose paths that match their strengths and ambitions.

Remember: an acceptance rate is just a number. What matters most is how you prepare, apply, and grow.

💬 Thinking About Your Next Steps?

Whether you’re just beginning to explore your options or finalising your UCAS application, the team at The Bedford Sixth Form is here to help. Reach out to your tutor or our Careers Advisor to get tailored advice for your university journey.

🎓 Useful Links

🗂️ General UCAS and University Application Info

📊 University Acceptance Rate & Course Data