University admissions will be revolutionised under plans to broaden the scope of criteria used for selection at the expense of A Level grades, reports the FT.

The new access regulator will oversee an American-style system of a portfolio of personal information being used to select candidates in a move aimed at boosting the chances of under-represented groups in Britain's universities.

The portfolios, including data such as intelligence test scores, voluntary work records and special aptitudes, will also be administered online.

As the fallout from Wednesday's announcement continues, the Times reports warnings that the changes will lead to a two-tier system.

Access expert professor Clare Callendar says that poorer students will seek to cut costs by staying at home and choosing cheaper degrees, while middle class children will enjoy the benefits of moving away from home and the prestige of elite courses.