The only apparent benefit in cashing in is to enable the student to show the AS level qualification on the UCAS form in their application to Higher Education.

BBC: Heads' letter warns of AS-level confusion

The college will not be part of the UCAS applications process, with each application considered "individually, personally and on its merits".

BBC: Richard Dawkins

But Dr Wendy Piatt, director general of the Russell Group of universities, agreed with UCAS that it was too early in the year to judge overall application figures.

BBC: UK university applications down for second year running