The number of students starting nursing degrees in England has risen for the first time since the post-pandemic surge in 2021, new UCAS data shows.
A total of 18,640 people have accepted places on undergraduate nursing degrees this year – up 1% on the same point in 2024 – with the increase driven by a significant rise in younger applicants. More than 11,500 students under 25 (11,530) have accepted places, up 6% from 10,850 last year.
The data, published four weeks after A-level results day, signals renewed interest in nursing among school leavers and young adults.
During the pandemic, the number of new nursing students surged – jumping 25% to 22,490 in 2020 and rising a further 4% to 23,490 in 2021. Although numbers have remained well above pre-pandemic levels (17,950 in 2019), they declined steadily between 2021 and 2024, reaching 18,420 last year.
This year’s increase reverses that trend, underlining the impact of targeted recruitment efforts and new government-backed initiatives.
Midwifery degrees have also seen a 3% increase in acceptances, from 3,290 in 2024 to 3,390 this year. The rise is particularly strong among 18 to 24-year-olds, up 10% from 2,140 to 2,360 students.
Graduate Guarantee supporting new nurses into work
The positive figures follow the government’s Graduate Guarantee, announced in August, which ensures that thousands of newly qualified nurses and midwives will be able to move quickly into employment.
Under the new approach, NHS providers will begin recruiting graduates before vacancies formally arise, supported to hire based on projected need rather than current headcount. Every newly qualified nurse and midwife will also have access to a new online support hub offering practical advice, training, and career development opportunities.
Duncan Burton, Chief Nursing Officer for England, said:
“Nursing is a fantastic and deeply rewarding career. Becoming a nurse was the best decision I ever made – it’s a profession that allows you to make a difference every single day, combining expertise and compassion in equal measure.
“It’s inspiring to see so many younger people joining the profession, and we’re also committed to helping more mature students train through degree apprenticeships. The 2,000 extra nursing degree apprenticeships in the NHS 10 Year Health Plan will widen access and ensure nursing remains open to all who have the passion and commitment to care.”
He added:
“There are still places available through clearing, so I would encourage anyone considering university this year to think about a healthcare degree – it’s an opportunity to change lives and build a meaningful career.”
Students inspired by care and compassion
Second-year student Oluwafadekemi Dorcas Ojo, studying mental health nursing at the University of Salford, said her career choice was inspired by kindness she witnessed early in her training.
“On my first day I was nervous and unsure, but a ward manager’s encouragement changed everything. She showed me that nursing is not just about treatment – it’s about truly seeing and supporting people. Now I want to make that same difference to others.”
Laura Mason, also a second-year student at Salford, said her path into midwifery began after a midwife’s quick action during her own pregnancy identified a life-threatening carbon monoxide leak.
“That experience opened my eyes to the critical, often life-saving role midwives play. It inspired me to provide that same level of care to others.”
Government commitment to the future NHS workforce
Health and Social Care Secretary Wes Streeting said:
“Nurses are the beating heart of the NHS and central to our mission to build a health service fit for the future.
“Through our Graduate Guarantee and the 10 Year Health Plan, we’re breaking down barriers to training and creating thousands of new job opportunities, including 2,000 more nursing apprenticeships in the areas that need them most.
“Their skills are vital to cutting waiting lists and delivering the highest quality care as part of our Plan for Change.”
For more information about nursing and midwifery careers in the NHS, visit www.healthcareers.nhs.uk.
Source: NHS England
