The percentage of undergraduate students considering dropping out of university has fallen, according to a 2026 survey by the Higher Education Policy Institute (HEPI). The survey of over 10,000 students found that 22% had considered leaving, a decrease from 29% in the previous year.
Despite this drop, many students continue to find the transition to university challenging. Nearly a third of those who considered quitting cited mental health as their reason, with others mentioning financial difficulties or personal and family issues.
Students shared various strategies for settling in, such as joining sports teams or societies, maintaining routines, and reaching out to peers. Lola-Mae Till, education officer at Sheffield Students' Union, found joining a women's rugby team helpful for establishing a routine and seeing people.
Joylin Joseph, a final year software engineering student, advised stepping out of one's comfort zone and joining societies. Kiera Thakkar, a second-year marketing psychology student, suggested saying 'yes' to opportunities to meet new people.
Students' Unions offer support for those struggling. Ebuka Obi, president of Sheffield Hallam Students' Union, highlighted that students are not alone and that universities provide services and opportunities for engagement throughout the academic year, including well-being focused activities during 'Welcome Back Week' in January.