Widening participation

Supporting students from all backgrounds to access, succeed and progress through higher education

We believe that fair access to higher education is a fundamental enabler for social mobility, improving life opportunities and outcomes for individual students, while benefiting the economy and society as a whole.

The University is committed to enabling social mobility through education. We aim to widen participation; raise attainment; contribute to a strong regional skills base; and bridge gaps in retention, progression and success to ensure our students enjoy the best possible outcomes at University and as graduates.

Our strategy is based on the following principles:

• Diversity, fair access and inclusivity
• A whole student lifecycle approach
• Collaboration and partnership
• Evidence-based practice

We aim to:

1. Improve access to the University of Exeter and work collaboratively within our region and to better understand and address barriers to social mobility
2. Address the causes of observable gaps in success and progression for key groups
3. Enable an inclusive university culture where all can fulfil their potential