AQW 21710/22-27 Written question to the Minister for the Economy
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail any plans he has to incentivise part-time learning as a means of improving the inclusiveness of higher education and to attract a more diverse range of students, including those who (i) are employed; (ii) are facing financial hardship; and (iii) have caring responsibilities.
Asked by Kate Nicholl MLA on 31 January 2025
- Answered
- Written
- Tabled
- 31 January 2025
- Answer due by
- 17 February 2025
- Answered
- 12 February 202512 days after tabling
- Department
- Department for the Economy
- Priority question
- No
Answer
Currently, eligible part-time students can apply for a means-tested tuition fee grant of up to £1,230 and course grant of up to £265. They can also apply for a non-means-tested fee loan of up to £3,562.50.
My predecessor agreed to proceed with a review of Higher Education Funding and I will be engaging with my officials to consider the support available to higher education students going forward.