Students heading to university this year have been given more clarity about what support will be available to them.
Speaking in the House of Keys, the Minister for Education, Sport and Culture confirmed that students who meet the current criteria may be eligible for a loan, a fees grant, and a maintenance grant to assist with the cost of studying off-island.
Daphne Caine was questioned on student support by Jason Moorhouse (Arbory, Castletown and Malew).
She said: “The purpose of the combined loans and fees grant is to contribute to the cost of the university fee, currently £9,250 per year for most undergraduate programmes in the United Kingdom.
“A loan is available for students, and according to the current regulations, students must contribute the first £2,500 of their tuition fees, which can be done through personal funds or through the use of the loan facility.”
Means Tested
A means-tested fees grant of up to £6,750 is available, along with a maintenance grant for students whose household income does not exceed £70,147 – or £73,386 for those studying in London or overseas.
Maintenance grants range from £8,640 for students on 30-week courses in London or abroad, to £8,100 for those studying elsewhere in the UK.
The Minister also confirmed that “for eligible students starting university in September 2025, the department will cover the cost of the increase of £285 in university fees from £9,250 to £9,535”.
A review of student award regulations is ongoing, with amendments expected in autumn 2025 for students entering university the following year.
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