For the first time in nearly a decade, university tuition fees in England are set to increase, reaching a new high of 9,535 British pounds per student per year.
The government announced the inflation-linked rise, which will come into effect in the next academic year, in response to escalating financial difficulties faced by higher education institutions.
University fees have been frozen at 9,250 British pounds since 2017, during which time inflation has significantly eroded their
value.
In a bid to alleviate the impact on students, the government will also boost student maintenance loans. This adjustment will offer an additional 414 British Pounds annually for students from low-income families, aiming to provide some relief amid the rising cost of living.
The education secretary emphasised the government’s commitment to supporting students and highlighted the difficult financial landscape, necessitating tough decisions to stabilise universities and ensure their long-term viability.