Courses and the content of modules are the main considerations students take into account when deciding upon a university.
This is according to new research jointly commissioned by the Sutton Trust and the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills from UCAS, which found these to be the most important factors for all students.
It was also shown that high achievers apply to the most selective universities because of the prestige and academic excellence associated with these learning institutes.
David Willetts, the universities and science minister, noted choosing which university to attend is a life-changing decision for many – and one that can be very daunting for young people.
Mr Willetts stated: “That’s why we are so determined to make it easier for people to meet their aspirations and fulfil their ability irrespective of where they grew up.”
It was shown that while the most determined and decided scholars – who tend to be confident and assertive – apply to the most selective universities, the less-confident contingent students have little knowledge of the benefits of these institutes.