The pie charts compare the reasons why students chose a university in the UK in 1987 and 2007. Units are measured in percentages.
Overall, the most noticeable feature is that suitable degree courses were the dominant reason for both years, slightly increasing over time. While quality teaching and being close to parental home gained importance, the proportion of students considering quality of resources and good sports and social activities declined.
Following 1987, the percentage of students who selected a university due to suitable degree courses rose from 35% to 37% in 2007, remaining the most significant factor in both years. Likewise, the figure for those who preferred universities close to their parental home grew from 10% to 22%. In addition, the share of students prioritizing quality teaching increased slightly from 15% to 18%, showing a continued focus on educational standards.
By contrast, other reasons became less influential. Quality of resources accounted for 21% in 1987 but dropped to 17% in 2007. Similarly, good sports and social activities experienced a noticeable decline, falling from 19% to just 6%. Despite being important to some extent, these non-academic facilities seemed to matter less to students over time.