competition for a university place

[White Hat]

In the 19th century, it was still difficult for women to enroll at an institution of higher learning in Russia. In this context, would it be correct to say 'The competition for a university place among women was several times more severe than it was among men'? Should I drop 'the' and is 'greater' a better choice than 'more severe' here?

 

[amkon]

Not a teacher

I would say:
"Competition for a university place for women was much harder than that for men."

 

[Tarheel]

I would prefer: "Competition to get into a university was more intense for women."

 

[White Hat]

I would prefer: "Competition to get into a university was more intense for women."

Would it be OK to say 'Competition to get into a university was 3 to 4 times more intense for women' in a research paper?