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  • Writer's pictureCohesive Society

Disparity For The BAME Students In Higher Studies In The UK

Updated: Mar 29




According to the Higher Education Statistics Agency (HESA), the proportion of UK students from a BAME background increased from 18.1% in 2010-11 to 29.9% in 2020-21. The proportion of full-time BAME students also increased from 19.1% to 31.3% over the same period.

Regarding specific ethnic groups, the HESA data shows that the proportion of Black students increased from 4.2% in 2010-11 to 7.7% in 2020-21. The proportion of Asian students increased from 13.5% to 18.5% over the same period.


However, it's worth noting that there are significant variations in participation rates across different ethnic groups. For example, in 2020-21, the proportion of White students in higher education was 70.1%, compared to 7.7% for Black students, 18.5% for Asian students, and 3.7% for other ethnic groups.



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Additionally, there are disparities in degree outcomes between different ethnic groups. According to data from the Office for Students, in 2019-20, the proportion of BAME students who graduated with a first or upper-second-class degree was 76.4%, compared to 82.6% for White students.




Overall, it's clear that there have been significant changes in the demographic composition of UK universities over the past decade, with increasing numbers of BAME students enrolling in higher education. However, there are still significant disparities in participation rates and degree outcomes between different ethnic groups that require attention and action.


Here are some potential data points to include in a graph on BAME youth studying in universities in the UK:




The proportion of UK students from a BAME background, 2010-11 to 2020-21

The proportion of BAME students studying full-time, 2010-11 to 2020-21

The proportion of Black students in higher education, 2010-11 to 2020-21

The proportion of Asian students in higher education, 2010-11 to 2020-21

The proportion of White Students in higher education, 2020-21

The proportion of BAME students who graduated with a first or upper-second-class degree, 2019-20


These data points could be plotted over time or as a comparison between groups. You could also consider separating the data by specific ethnic groups or universities.




BAME (Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic) students in the UK face significant barriers when it comes to accessing and succeeding in higher education. However, there are ways to increase their stake and help them achieve their academic goals.


One key strategy is to provide more support and resources to BAME students. This could include targeted mentoring programs, access to academic and financial assistance, and culturally sensitive counseling services. Additionally, universities could create more diverse and inclusive learning environments by hiring more BAME faculty and staff, offering more courses that reflect the experiences and perspectives of BAME communities, and creating more opportunities for BAME students to engage in extracurricular activities.


It's also important to address systemic issues that contribute to the underrepresentation of BAME students in higher education, such as racism, discrimination, and socio-economic disadvantage. This could involve advocating for policy changes at the government level, investing in outreach programs that target underrepresented communities, and working to eliminate bias in the university admissions process.


Overall, increasing the stake of BAME students in higher education requires a comprehensive and collaborative effort from universities, government, and the wider community. By working together, we can create a more equitable and inclusive higher education system for all.

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