Data show UQ scores highest QTAC first preferences

Latest figures show the University of Queensland has received the State's highest number of Queensland Tertiary Admissions Centre first preference applications for places in 1998, going against the State trend for a declining number of applications.

QTAC application statistics at January 1, 1998 present a positive picture for the University, according to University Manager, Courses and Admissions, Maureen Bowen.

Mrs Bowen said data indicated that the University of Queensland's first preference applications had increased by 5.2 percent compared to the same time last year. Almost 700 new first preferences had been recorded since the end of November.

'UQ still has the most first preferences overall and the first preferences margin between UQ and its nearest competitor has increased to approximately 700,' she said.

At January 1, 1998, 12,609 first preferences and 40,092 total preferences had been recorded for UQ courses compared with 11,985 first preferences and 39,292 total preferences at the same time in 1997.

'There was a State-wide trend for decreased QTAC applications by school leavers - down by seven percent overall,' Ms Bowen said.

Despite this decline, UQ had increased its first preference applications from current or recent matriculants from 6238 at January 1, 1997 to 6736 at January 1, 1998.

This suggested the University's schools liaison program and other communications were effective in conveying the quality and relevance of the University's courses to this age group.

The main QTAC offers for 1998 admissions will be made on Friday, January 16, 1998 (the major offer round); and Wednesday, February 4, 1998 (final offer round).

For further information, contact Mrs Bowen, telephone 3365 1979.