The University of Stirling has said 76 of the 180 students affected by the accommodation crisis have been offered University of Stirling accommodation, with most of those concerned are first-years.
The news follows a Brig exclusive last week, which found some students had been contacted just two weeks out from the start of term to inform them they did not have accommodation for the next year.
This came as devastating news to those coming to Stirling from abroad and the rest of the UK, in particular those under 18 who cannot legally rent privately.
The university said it had made those under 18 a priority in providing accommodation to, but some have been offered places as far away as Glasgow.
The university stated: “Seventy remaining students have been offered alternative accommodation at purpose-built student accommodation in the centre of Glasgow. The accommodation is a few minutes’ walk from Glasgow Queen Street Rail Station and we are providing students with a 16-25 railcard providing a 1/3 off train fares.
“We regret, and apologise for, any inconvenience to affected students.”
The statement added: “Around 180 students were initially affected, however, 76 have now been offered university accommodation, with priority given to students under 18 and to those with previously-known health considerations which could impact upon their university education. Application dates were also considered as part of the process.
“A number of students have also confirmed that they have secured private accommodation.”
One student who was offered accommodation at Dobbie’s Point in Glasgow told Brig: “At first I was completely furious and felt really let down by the university, especially to hear those in the above years got spaces before first years, and those who only live 15 minutes.
“While I still think something needs to be done about the allocation of accommodation, I’m pleased that they have tried to resolve the problem and give everyone a solution.”
Brig has learned the number of applications for accommodation rose by 609 this year, from 3,070 last year to 3,679 for 2017/18.
Stirling University added: “The University of Stirling has a student population of more than 14,000 with the majority commuting from off campus. The university has recently invested £40 million in its student accommodation and has 2,900 bed spaces available for September 2017.
“The university offers students the opportunity to apply for University accommodation and strives to meet the needs of all of our students. However, due to the number of applications, the University is unable to guarantee accommodation to every student.”
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