Starting from the academic year 2025–26, home students in England will face a notable tuition fee increase alongside adjusted maintenance loan provisions. This marks a significant policy shift in student finance and requires students, parents, and advisers to re-evaluate how they plan and manage university expenses. While the rise in costs reflects ongoing inflation and university funding needs, it also raises concerns about affordability and access.
How Much Are Tuition Fees Increasing?
From July 2025, tuition fees for full-time undergraduate courses in England will increase to £9,750 per year, up from the long-standing cap of £9,250. This is the first rise in nearly a decade and aims to adjust for inflation and rising university operating costs. For part-time students, the fees will be adjusted proportionately, based on course intensity.
| Academic Year | Tuition Fee (Full-time, per year) |
|---|---|
| 2024–25 | £9,250 |
| 2025–26 | £9,750 |
Students in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland should refer to their respective funding bodies, as fee structures differ by region.
What Changes Are Happening to Maintenance Loans in the UK?
In response to the tuition fee increase, maintenance loans in the UK are also being restructured. For 2025–26, the maximum maintenance loan available to students living away from home (outside London) will rise to £10,800. Those studying in London can borrow up to £14,600, while students living at home will have access to a slightly increased threshold of £8,100.
These figures reflect the government’s attempt to balance student affordability with rising living costs, especially in major cities. However, it’s important to note that maintenance loans are means-tested, and students from higher-income households may receive less support.
Key Student Finance Changes You Should Understand
The 2025–26 academic year also brings adjustments to repayment terms. The repayment threshold will now start at £25,000 annually, with repayments set at 9% of income above this amount. Interest will continue to be applied at the rate of inflation (RPI) + up to 3%, depending on income.
Additionally, repayment terms have been extended: loans will now be written off after 40 years instead of the previous 30. This change means more graduates are likely to repay a larger portion of their loans, increasing the long-term financial commitment.
Impact on Students and Families
These updates are expected to affect student decision-making, particularly for families on the financial margin. The tuition fee increase, combined with long-term repayment changes, might prompt more students to consider local universities or accelerated degrees to reduce overall costs. Others may explore apprenticeships or vocational alternatives that offer lower debt burdens.
Universities, in turn, may need to bolster their bursary and scholarship offerings to remain attractive to applicants from underrepresented or low-income backgrounds. Support services like budgeting workshops and financial counseling are also expected to see increased demand.
Planning Ahead: What Can Students Do Now?
Students preparing for university in 2025 should take early action:
- Use the Student Finance calculator to estimate tuition and maintenance loan eligibility.
- Research universities offering generous financial aid packages.
- Attend open days and speak with student finance advisers.
- Explore part-time work options and student discounts to supplement income.
Making informed choices and budgeting effectively will be key to managing the cost of higher education in the new funding landscape.
Conclusion
The UK Tuition Fees Rise in 2025–26 signals a major shift in how students will fund their university education. While the tuition fee increase and changes to maintenance loans UK-wide aim to balance education quality and affordability, students must approach these changes with careful planning. Staying informed and proactive will help new undergraduates manage the impact and make sound decisions about their futures.
FAQs
How much is the tuition fee increase for 2025–26?
The fee is increasing by £500, from £9,250 to £9,750 for full-time home students in England.
Are maintenance loans going up too?
Yes, maximum loan amounts have increased to reflect higher living costs: up to £14,600 for students in London, £10,800 elsewhere, and £8,100 if living at home.
Who decides these student finance changes?
The UK government sets tuition fee caps and loan conditions, based on policy reviews and economic considerations.
Can I still apply for bursaries or grants?
Yes. Most universities offer bursaries or scholarships. These do not need to be repaid and can help reduce your loan reliance.
When will the new repayment rules apply?
For students starting in the 2025–26 academic year, repayment starts once earnings exceed £25,000, with loans written off after 40 years.
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