UK's 10 Universities with the Highest Dropout Rates

University is an exciting experience. Stepping into a new environment, meeting new people, and studying what you love can be wonderful. However, it is also overwhelming, and over 40% of students consider dropping out. If you are a part of this 40%, know that 6 in every 100 students actually end up dropping out, so you are not alone. University may not be for everyone, and that’s completely fine. Using information from What Uni?, here are 10 universities with the highest dropout rates. 

1. London Metropolitan University
   With a 18.6% dropout rate, London Met sits at the top of the list. Known for its focus on social inclusion and diverse student body, dropout rates could be attributed to the high cost of living in the city. 

2. The University of Bolton
   Located in Greater Manchester, Bolton Uni is known for its range of vocational programmes and proximity to the city of Manchester, with close ties to industry. This university has a dropout rate of 15.4%.

3. University of Bedfordshire
   Just lower than Bolton is Bedfordshire Uni, with a dropout rate of 15.2%. This university is known for its diverse student body, vocational courses, and a sustainable campus.

4. University of the Highlands and Islands
   Located in the gorgeous city of Inverness, UHI has a dropout rate of 14%, but is also known for its unique multi-campus structure, combination of vocational and university education, and specialised programs.

5. University of Suffolk
   With a 13.6% dropout rate, this modern uni is noted for its stunning waterfront campus and teaching support. Established in 2007, it is a relatively new university.

6. Scotland’s Rural College (SRUC)
   This specialist uni focuses on land-based industries and agriculture. With a 12.9% dropout rate, it provides courses on veterinary sciences, agriculture, and forestry.

7. Middlesex University
   Middlesex University in London has a dropout rate of 12.6%, but is known for its well-equipped campus and international presence in Dubai and Mauritius.

8. Arts University Plymouth
   Founded in 1856, this university is famed for its art and media education, high-quality studios, and creative spaces in the city. This uni has a dropout rate of 12.5%.

9. University of Wolverhampton
   Serving over 18,000 students, the University of Wolverhampton has specialised campuses across the city, is ranked highly for social mobility, and has a notable regional impact. The university does have a 12.2% dropout rate.

10. University of Abertay Dundee
    The last one on the list by a small margin, the Uni of Abertay has a 12.1% dropout rate. It is a centre for video games development, forensic science, and cybersecurity. 

This list is not reflective of the quality of universities; rather, it is indicative of the fact that universities may not be for everyone! We hope that if you have dropped out or consider dropping out, this list makes you realise that you aren’t alone.

Now you know which universities have the highest rates, why not find out which universities have the lowest dropout rates in the UK.