Freshers will happen in 2020

TOP INSIGHTS FOR YOUTH MARKETING BRANDS

Polling and market research shows that universities will be opening and that students will be moving to campus, ready for the 2020 autumn term. Read on for essential insights about students and the HE sector. We're offering up to 20% off Freshers campaigns booked in August.

FRESHERS DISCOUNTS

How we know that Freshers will happen this year

We've stayed close to students during Lockdown. By observing their online behaviour and comments, we get a clear picture of how they are likely to act. But we don't just rely on our own insights when it comes to changes in the HE sector. Here's what you need to know about Freshers 2020:

Key facts for Freshers 2020:

  • More students are starting university in autumn 2020 than autumn 2019
  • Nearly all UK universities plan to open in September or October
  • 71% of 2020 applicants want to start university on campus in the autumn
  • 40% of students will make retail purchases 1-4 weeks before starting university (i.e. in August and September)

FRESHERS AUGUST DISCOUNTS

Will students start university this year?

The number of applicants starting in autumn has risen 1% year-on-year (UCAS).

In June, our HE research survey (Navigating Changing Options) revealed that 71% of 2020 applicants want to start university in September on campus with social distancing in place.

START IN SEPTEMBER (OR OCTOBER) WITH SOCIAL DISTANCING
71%
DELAY, DEFER, STUDY FROM HOME
29%

When will university campuses be open to students?

Youth marketing agency, BAM polled students:

Will your campus be open to students in September or October? 

Yes
96%
No
4%

FRESHERS AUGUST DISCOUNTS

How do Freshers shoppers prepare for university?

Our research shows that 40% of students will make retail purchases 1-4 weeks before starting university. But what are they buying?

  • 58% want to buy a new laptop
  • 29% plan to upgrade their mobile phone
  • 75% will open a new student bank account

Over the years, we've developed a pretty good idea of what students need for university. To help our users, we release a Freshers packing guide called the:"What to take to university checklist". This categorises essential items into groups, like stationery and kitchen equipment, and has hyperlinks to products. Our Freshers 2020 Hub also lists: The unknown essentials to pack for uni.