Near-record numbers of students have been accepted onto courses this year, UCAS figures show, although there is a slight drop from last year.
A total of 425,830 people have had places confirmed - the second highest number on record, with A-level results this year once again being based on exams.
In 2021, which saw exams cancelled and teacher-assessed grades used instead, a record 435,430 people had places confirmed.
Ucas said 19% more 18-year-olds in the UK achieved a place at either their first or insurance choice this year, compared with 2019, before the pandemic.
The number of students from the most disadvantaged backgrounds to gain places on courses is 6,850 this year, up by 3,770 in 2019.
The admissions service said this translates to a narrowing of the gap between the most and least advantaged.
In addition to A-level and BTec results, this year is also the first for T-level results, a new type of vocational qualification.
