Cribsheet 22.08.11

University Scotland fees St Andrews Freshers — Freshers' initiations at St Andrews University. English, Welsh, and Northern Irish students face more expensive fees than Scottish and EU students. Photograph: Murdo Macleod

As the clearing process continues, some people are asking themselves if it's even worth going to university at all. Why get burdened by extortionate student fees when some of the UK's biggest employers are looking beyond the traditional graduate jobs market and launching recruitment drives aimed directly at high achieving A-level school leavers?

The Guardian's Charlie Brooker suggests skipping university altogether, as you can just lie on the job application forms.

For those opting for a university degree, surviving financially can be a challenge. So today from 2pm-4pm the Guardian has called in the services of an expert from student finance England, part of the student loans company, to answer all your questions on the subject. Post your questions here.

Education news from the Guardian

• A leading human rights lawyer says Scotland is breaking the law by charging students from elsewhere in the UK for university degrees while undergraduates from Scotland and the EU get their education free.

• Around 200,000 of the more than 600,000 applicants will miss out on places at UK universities this year, the highest number on record.

• Ucas tells unplaced students with good A-levels to try again next year.

• Professor Les Ebdon, vice-chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire, attacks the "poorly timed" government closure of the £78m Aimhigher support scheme.

Education news from around the web

• The Independent reports that the tuition fee system can be deemed discriminatory against Muslim students as, under some interpretations of Islamic law, the acquisition of loans – particularly those which accrue interest – is forbidden. A spokesman for the Federation of Student Islamic Societies calls the rate increase a "pressing issue".

• London's mayor, Boris Johnson, suggests the resurrection of English cricket can inspire young people in the inner cities who need rules and role models. He explains why in the Telegraph.

• Last week it was reported that musicians were urging the government to include creative and cultural subjects in its English Baccalaureate measure. Now Cornish charity K9 Crusaders wants dog education to be added to the school curriculum to cut down on dog "ignorance", reports the BBC.

Education seminars from Guardian Professional

Thinking about doing a PhD?

This seminar will provide independent advice and information on framing a research proposal, the process and pitfalls of a research degree and career prospects.

9 September, London.

Making the most of media opportunities to enhance your school's profile

Whether it's sharing good news or handling a crisis, headteachers and school management teams need to be able to handle the media in all of its forms. This one-day seminar in association with the NAHT is essential for new and aspiring heads as well as established school leaders who wish to update their knowledge. It includes a session on social media.

20 September, London.

Using social media to enhance the student experience

As tuition fees rise, so too do student expectations. Social media is an effective, low-cost way to manage this challenge. This seminar will explore newly conceived best practice, techniques and strategy for all higher education staff: academic, communications, recruitment, marketing and strategy.

22 September, London.

Life after a PhD

Whether it's getting published, convincing an employer that you have transferable skills, or securing an academic post, you need to be fully prepared to achieve your goals. This course will help you identify career opportunities for those with research skills and specialist knowledge.

28 September, London.