The number of first year students actually starting courses at universities and hbo colleges is not as large as first thought, Nos tv reports on Monday.

The number of first year university students is up over 5,000 or 12% while hbo colleges are coping with a 6% (6,200) rise in student numbers.
Earlier, university and college authorities said they expected a 20% increase in demand and called on the government to increase higher education funding.
The increase in student numbers is due in part to the economic crisis and lack of jobs for younger people.