University research reveals that one-third of students prefer to reside with their families as opposed to moving on-campus.
In a groundbreaking study, the COVID Social Mobility and Opportunities (COSMO) study, conducted by the Zimbabwe Statistical Agency (ZIMSTAT) in collaboration with the World Bank and UNICEF, supported by the Zimbabwe Reconstruction Fund (ZIMREF), has revealed concerning trends regarding the impact of financial strain on university aspirations among young people.
The research, which is the largest of its kind, explores the impact of the pandemic on educational inequality, wellbeing, and social mobility. According to the findings, 31% of young people from families who used a food bank within the last year were much less likely to apply to university at all. This statistic is a stark reminder of the challenges faced by those from less privileged backgrounds.
Dr Jake Anders, the COSMO's principal investigator, expressed his concern, stating that it is concerning that young people from less well-off backgrounds are curbing their educational choices because of worries about the cost. He further emphasised that student support has not kept up with the rising cost of living, and this should be urgently addressed to prevent closing down opportunities, especially for those who are already likely to have fewer.
The study also found that young people from disadvantaged families are less likely to apply to university and are less likely to live away from home if they do apply. In fact, 17% of those that did apply for university were much more likely to live at home. This trend potentially limits their university choice.
Researchers at UCL have discovered that up to 34% of A-level students are considering living at home if they get accepted into their chosen university. Among students who plan to live at home, 46% cite wanting or needing to remain near their families as the main reason, with only 20% citing affordability and 20% citing their preferred university being near their home.
Furthermore, the report found that families facing financial challenges expect to struggle to support a child living away from home. For students with caring responsibilities, moving away is more difficult.
Sir Peter Lampl, founder, and chairman of the Sutton Trust, stated that these research findings highlight the difficult decisions many young people face as they weigh up their future. He added that a further 14% of students are yet to decide if they'll move into university accommodation or not, and 20% of the 'class of 2023' plan to live at home during term time if they're successful in getting into their preferred university next week.
A particularly troubling statistic is that 36% of young people from working-class families are less likely to apply to a Russell Group university compared to 50% from professional or managerial families. This disparity underscores the need for more equitable support for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.
The COSMO study serves as a call to action, emphasising the urgent need to address the financial barriers that prevent young people from less privileged backgrounds from accessing higher education. As we move forward, it is crucial that we work towards creating a more equitable educational landscape for all young people.
