Section A Directions: In this section, there
is a short passage with 5 questions or incomplete statements. Read the passage
carefully. Then answer the questions or complete the statements in the fewest
possible words. Please write your answers on Answer Sheet
2.
A late surge in university applications is putting extra pressure on
sixth-formers to achieve top grades in their exams.
Figures out today show almost an 8 per cent increase-about 42,000-in
applications for full-time study at university, the biggest in eight years, with
many of the applications received in December and January. The recession and
rising unemployment have been blamed for the increase.
The high number of applications will mean that pupils who are offered
places on popular courses, or at prestigious universities, who do not attain
their predicted grades will have less room for tactic.
Adults hoping to retrain are also fuelling the boom: the number of
applications from candidates aged over 24 rose by 12.6 per cent. This is despite
a withdrawal of funding for people wanting to retrain in a different sphere, by
studying an equivalent or lower qualification than one they already held.
Universities and higher education groups welcomed the
increase in applications but criticised the Government for restricting places
and funding. Wes Streeting, president of the National
Union of Students, said: "It is hugely encouraging to see a record-breaking
number of applications to Britain’s universities, but we remain concerned about
the number of places available as a result of the cap on numbers imposed by the
Government. While Some had speculated that demand would fall, applicants of all
ages are clearly making the correct assessment that it is better to invest now
in their education and training." "We understand the
pressures on public finances, but the Government must also make the right
long-term decisions. It is surely better to bear the cost of additional
university places now than to shoulder the burden of long-term unemployment
later." Diana Warwick, chief executive of Universities
UK, which represents vice-chancellors, said: "Applicants are making informed
choices and thinking carefully about the value of higher education."
"With the increase in mature applicants, it is
encouraging that people are looking to upskill during a difficult time for the
jobs market." "We call on government to ensure that this
growth is matched with continued financial support," she added. The surge in university applications are resulted from______.