This year marked the greatest fall in university applications in recorded U.K. history, as the number of students applying for school next fall fell 8.7%.

Records show that there are 43,473 fewer applications for courses in autumn 2012 than in the previous school year.

The decline in applications is said to be the result of recent tuition fee increases of almost £9,000.

In light of the steep rise in tuition, more students are seeking voluntary work and internship placements abroad, according to Projects Abroad, a leading organiser of overseas volunteer work.

“As a result of fee increases and massive graduate unemployment, volunteering for philanthropic projects abroad becomes an attractive option,” Peter Slowe, director of Projects Abroad stated.

“It is an excellent way to step off the educational treadmill and gain some life perspective.”

Related Link

* Why study London