THE number of young Scots having to reapply to university after missing out the first time is on the increase sparking concern over future funding of the sector.

New figures show the number of 19-year-olds seeking a higher education place in 2016 after being rejected the previous year has jumped by more than five per cent from 2,390 to 2,520.

The figures come at a time when more young Scots than ever before are getting in to university - but increasing numbers are also missing out because the system is publicly funded and places are capped.

NUS Scotland, which represents students, said too many young people who wanted to study at university were "unable to get their foot in the door".

Vonnie Sandlan, the organisation's president, said: "It is evident in the continued demand for a place from students reapplying at the age of 19 that we must do all we can to increase the places and opportunities available.

“For many young people the opportunity to take time out after school and reapply the following year will be a perfectly fine one, but many more will have no other option except to reapply.

"For those students who do reapply, but still miss out on a university place, it means a double blow, potentially putting them off education altogether."

A spokeswoman for Universities Scotland, which represents principals, called for a debate about the right number of places that should be funded.

She said: "An increase in students re-applying is one factor, as is year-on-year improved performance in Highers and, of course, the big question of how we decide to take forward the recommendations on improving access to poorer students.

"We’d hope to have this conversation with Government, and others, shortly after the election. A decision on places is one that only the next Scottish Government can make.

"If there is a decision to expand it will be important to make sure that any increase in university places is an increase in funded places so that students continue to receive the quality of teaching and pastoral support they deserve."

A Scottish Government spokesman said the record number of applicants to Scottish universities demonstrated the "real ambition" on the part of young people.

He added: "We are continuing to invest over £1 billion in the sector to ensure it keeps punching above its weight on a global level.

"Scottish-domiciled students continue to benefit from free tuition, a key part of our work to ensure access to higher education remains based on the ability to learn not the ability to pay."

Meanwhile, a political row blew up over plans by the Scottish Conservatives to increase funding in Scottish universities by a reintroduction of the graduate endowment.

The SNP said the introduction of the charge would be the equivalent of a 4p rise in income tax for a graduate on the average salary raise their annual tax bill by £700.

However, the Scottish Tories hit back arguing that a "modest" graduate contribution, paid off by people after they had got a job, would help ensure better funding for higher education.