Minority ethnic groups and gender in access to higher education

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Abstract
This article analyses national data on admissions to higher education and demonstrates a variety of discrepancies, both gender and ‘race’ specific. Application to HE cannot be viewed separately from previous school experience: the outcome from earlier schooling is a set of qualifications which have a direct impact on the possibility of entering HE. Examination of detailed national data for home students who applied to universities for entry in 1990 reveals some explanations for the lower acceptance rates for women from minority ethnic groups compared with men from the same ethnic group. The article concludes by suggesting a review of admissions criteria, to be informed by an effective national monitoring system.