Story perspectives

Commuter students get more campus services as applications rise

By Drooid · Sep 13, 2026, 10:09 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

Universities are adding commuter-friendly services such as day rooms and off-peak gym access.
UCAS reports 612,690 UK students applied to live at home for 2026, an 8% increase.
Savanta research finds students with 45-minute+ commutes face more academic, practical and social challenges.
Many universities provide hardship funds and bursaries for commuter students.
HEPI chief executive Nick Hillman advises students to weigh long-term academic and social benefits of hall living.

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Story summary

Universities are adding commuter-friendly services such as day rooms and off-peak gym access.
UCAS reports 612,690 UK students applied to live at home for 2026, an 8% increase.
Savanta research finds students with 45-minute+ commutes face more academic, practical and social challenges.
Many universities provide hardship funds and bursaries for commuter students.
HEPI chief executive Nick Hillman advises students to weigh long-term academic and social benefits of hall living.