UK students: did you drop out of university last year?

Almost 40,000 students withdrew permanently from their studies this year Photograph: Chris Radburn/PA

The number of students dropping out of university has risen by almost a quarter amid the cost of living crisis.

According to the Student Loans Company, nearly 40,000 students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland permanently left their university courses by the end of August – a 23% rise on last year.