QTAC yesterday released the mid-January round of offers, taking the number of university hopefuls who have received offers to study at USC so far to 5,622. In a statement the university said that number was up 17.8 per cent and 21 per cent on two years ago. The offers included 2,296 to applicants from the Sunshine Coast (including Noosa Shire), 1,559 to residents of the Moreton Bay region, as well as 205 to Fraser Coast and 184 to Gympie residents. USC Vice-Chancellor Professor Helen Bartlett congratulated those who have received offers and encouraged new students to join in Orientation activities from February 22-26. “University study can be transformative,” Professor Bartlett said. “Not only does it boost career prospects, it can lead to long-lasting friendships and business contacts.”