The Office for Students has published guidance for the Higher Education Students Early Statistics survey 2026-27, setting out the data higher education providers must return if they are registered, or have applied to register, in the Approved (fee cap) category. The HESES26 return gives an early indication of the number of students studying in 2026-27 and will feed into OfS funding allocation for 2027-28.
Key facts
- The guidance was published on 21 October 2026.
- It applies to higher education providers registered, or applying to register, in the Approved (fee cap) category.
- HESES26 is the Higher Education Students Early Statistics return for the 2026-27 academic year.
- The collected data will be the main source used to inform OfS funding allocation for 2027-28.
What does this mean for students and universities?
For universities and other higher education providers, the immediate effect is administrative: they need to prepare the HESES26 data return for the OfS. Because the survey is used to provide an early indication of student numbers, the information submitted now helps shape funding decisions for the following year.
For students, the practical significance is indirect but important. The return helps determine how the OfS allocates funding for 2027-28, so the accuracy and timeliness of provider data matter to the resource environment in which courses are delivered.
- Who is affected: providers in, or applying for, the Approved (fee cap) category.
- What is being reported: early statistics on higher education students studying in 2026-27.
- Why it matters: the return informs OfS funding allocation for 2027-28.
FAQ
What is HESES26?
HESES26 is the Higher Education Students Early Statistics return for the 2026-27 academic year. It provides an early indication of the number of higher education students studying during that period.
Who must return the data to the OfS?
Higher education providers that are registered, or have applied to register, in the Approved (fee cap) category must return the HESES data to the Office for Students.
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