Four times as many firsts were awarded in 2015-16 compared to five years ago, figures show. This means that in recent years one-third of UK universities and colleges are awarding firsts to at least 25% of their students.
In some cases, the proportion of firsts given out has more than doubled in five years, Press Association analysis of Higher Education Statistics Agency data found.
The findings have prompted questions about whether the higher education system needs to be overhauled. Nick Hillman, the director of the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI), said some rise was “not unreasonable” but he suggested that the impact of university league tables could be fuelling grade inflation.
Share your experiences
We want to hear from students and academics about the rise. What is the reason for this? As a student who is paying more, do you expect to get a better degree result? As a professor, is there pressure to give higher grades? Share your responses below.
