What are our criteria for underrepresented students?
An individual or household’s social and economic position can be represented through indicators such as income, education, occupation and how this compares to others. Students from more advantaged backgrounds often benefit from more effective information from schools, parents/supporters and broader networks. Students from more disadvantaged backgrounds, who may not have the same support at home and through their networks, are less likely to have access to effective information and guidance. Universities are encouraged to consider a variety of measures and indicators to develop an understanding of underrepresentation in their own context. These groups can relate (but are not limited) to:
We currently define our underrepresented groups as:
- Students from areas of low higher education participation, low household income or low socioeconomic status
- Some black, Asian and minority ethnic students
- Disabled students
- Care-experienced students
- Carers
- People permanently estranged from both parents or carers
- People from Gypsy, Traveller, Roma, Showman and Boater communities
- Refugees and asylum seekers
- Children from military families
Please visit The Office for Students website for more information.
Please note, we are currently reviewing these cohorts based on the latest guidance from OfS. This information was correct at the time of publication, please note the criteria is subject to change.
Published: 4 April 2023