Student spending continues to climb
On average, students spent £2,113 on items ahead of starting uni in 2021, and this number has been increasing year on year. With over 600,000 applicants so far, pre-uni spending is set to get even bigger this year.
Student pre-uni purchase intentions 2022
(Source: UCAS pulse survey, March 2022)
Connect with students at every step
Despite the uncertainty of the pandemic, last year’s freshers were researching and buying products for uni well before the autumn. Early buying will likely continue this year, and 91% of 2022 applicants we’ve surveyed say they’ll start buying items before getting to campus.
Applicant uni product researching/purchasing 2021:
(Source: UCAS student lifestyle survey 2021)
Get ahead of the competition
From accepting a university offer to getting final grades, applicants experience some big moments in these pre-uni months. But not all journeys follow the same path – so knowing which students to reach (and when) is crucial for brands aiming to make a lifelong connection.
Student pre-uni celebration purchase plans 2022
(Source: UCAS pulse survey, March 2022)
Students want to hear from you
We asked 2022 applicants which brands they’d most like to hear from about back to uni or end of school/college celebration products and deals. With over 350 different brands named, now’s the time to get in touch with those students who love what you’ve got to offer – whether it’s a uni essential or a special treat.
Top 20 Back to Uni brands 2022
- Apple
- Nike
- Amazon / IKEA
- ASOS
- Tesco
- Currys PC World
- WHSmith
- H&M
- Samsung
- Adidas
- JD Sports
- Boots / Urban Outfitters
- Argos
- Waterstones
- Zara / Primark
- Asda
- Dell / Superdrug / Microsoft / PrettyLittleThing
- HP
- Wilko
- Sainsbury's
(Source: UCAS pulse survey, March 2022)
Create the ideal back to uni campaign
We have the knowledge, the data and the tools to help you create a back to uni campaign tailored to your brand’s ambitions and budget. Please submit your details below to download our Back to Uni commercial pack and/or send us an enquiry: