Abstract
This article develops a model for potential working-class applicants to university, using multinomial logit regression to analyse a national UK sample, drawn from lower middle and working-class adults aged 16 30. Influential factors are belief in ability, preference for university rather than earning money, qualifications and family encouragement; the plans of older respondents (19–30-year-olds) are also influenced by wanting personal betterment, enjoyment of study, and the absence of other responsibilities. The model is further tested, using logistic discriminant analysis, to compare actual participants and those with no plans to apply. Competing responsibilities and preference for earning money are confirmed as key reasons for nonparticipation among potential entrants. The study suggests that policies for widening participation in Higher Education (HE) may need to take more account of personal motivation, attitudes to university education and competing responsibilities.
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