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Monday, 20 August, 2001, 13:04 GMT 14:04 UK

Prince boosts university's draw


Prince William studying at Eton
Prince William has sparked interest in the university
Students keen to study at the same institution as Prince William have caused a massive increase in high quality applications to St Andrews University

The ancient Scottish university has been so popular that for the first time in two decades it has no need to recruit through the clearing process.

Applications to the university have increased by 44% since it emerged the prince would be studying in Fife and even the traditionally difficult to fill courses are over-subscribed.

The 19-year-old prince is due to arrive in the Fife town next month to begin his History of Art course.

St Andrews art and history department
University officials have been amazed at the interest they have received from prospective students.

Stephen Magee, the university's director of admissions, said: "We are full. The heightened profile we have received over the past few months has meant we received an exceptionally high number of good quality applications and will not have to participate in the clearing process.

"Every year for the last 20 or so we have had to use clearing to fill courses which are less in demand than others.

"But this year we have filled all our places across the board."

The clearing process in Scotland began after the exam results were sent out to students last Tuesday.

St Andrews University
It is designed to help students who may have missed out on their preferred course or who may have changed their career plans over the summer.

It also features courses which traditionally have difficulty attracting students.

Last year about 6% of the 1,300 first-year places at St Andrews were filled through clearing.

The intake figures are the latest example of the so-called Prince William effect, which has resulted in a 44% increase in applications to the university since it emerged the prince would be studying in Scotland.


Related to this story:
William 'guards' request more cash (31 Jan 01 | Scotland) Students warned over William leaks (28 Jan 01 | Scotland) William: The student Prince (18 Aug 00 | UK) Prince William makes the grade (17 Aug 00 | Education) St Andrews: Home to the well-heeled student (17 Aug 00 | Scotland)


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