Report

Unite Students Applicant Index 2026

This report from UK think tank HEPI states that paid work has become part of the student experience.

9 in 10 students expect to work during term time – a new report shows paid jobs are now the norm. 87% of applicants expect to work during term time, with a third expecting to work over 16 hours a week. Most applicants still want the full university experience and independence – most applicants still plan to live away from home, rather than commute.

Applicants remain optimistic, but confidence has softened across wellbeing, learning and resilience. Nearly half say more opportunities to socialise and build connections would improve their university experience. Nine in ten applicants now expect to work during term time while at university, according to the new Applicant Index 2026 from Unite Students and HEPI, showing that paid work has become part of the student experience.