The Department of Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation, and Science has recently released a paper outlining ways to reduce the financial burden of college for students. This paper, released in advance of the budget, discusses options such as reducing student fees, increasing grant supports, and cutting costs for student accommodation.
Stakeholders, including students, access officers, and advocates, recently met to provide feedback for this paper. Suggestions included more support for graduate entry medicine students and changes to grant eligibility for holiday work income. The department highlighted the need to prioritize issues like student accommodation, transport costs, and support for disadvantaged students.
Ultimately, the goal is to lessen the costs for students and their families. The department’s options paper aims to analyze costs and potential impacts, paving the way for future government decisions. With the support and input of various stakeholders, there is hope for positive changes in student financial support in the near future.