The latest Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS) data shows a small decrease of around 0.7% in applications to nursing courses in Wales this year.
By the June 2026 deadline, 4,340 people had applied to study nursing in Wales, compared to 4,370 at the same point last year. However, the 2025 cycle saw the highest number of applications in the last five years, meaning application numbers remain broadly stable overall.
Professor Sandy Harding, Associate Director of Nursing Policy and Professional Practice at RCN Wales, said: "It is encouraging to see continued interest in nursing programmes in Wales. While application numbers are slightly lower than last year, the difference is minimal and follows a particularly strong year for recruitment.
"Nursing remains a rewarding and valued profession, and we are pleased that so many people continue to choose Wales as a place to study. Many applicants will come from outside Wales, bringing a range of experiences and perspectives that enrich both our universities and our future workforce.
"As students prepare to begin their nursing education this September, we look forward to welcoming them and supporting them throughout their studies. We will engage with many of them during their first placement experiences and in their early weeks of clinical practice.
"At the same time, it is important that we continue to focus on employment opportunities for those completing their nursing programmes. Wales has invested significantly in educating the next generation of nurses, and we want newly qualified registrants to be able to build their careers within the Welsh NHS and wider health and care system.
"RCN Wales continues to call on the Welsh Government to guarantee employment opportunities for all nursing graduates in Wales. At a time when services face significant workforce pressures, it is essential that newly qualified nurses are able to move into practice, develop their skills and contribute to patient care. Supporting people into nursing education and ensuring there are opportunities for them when they graduate are both critical to building a sustainable nursing workforce for the future."
ENDS
Notes to editors
According to the latest figures from UCAS released today (Thursday 16 July), the number of applications to study nursing in Wales was 4,340. This is a decrease from the previous year of 4,370. The latest UCAS data can be found here.
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) is the voice of nursing across the UK, including around 35,000 members in Wales. The RCN promotes the interests of nursing and patients on a wide range of issues and helps shape health care policy.
For more information, contact the RCN Wales communications and media team on 02920 680 769 or mediawales@rcn.org.uk
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