NI Students Set To Receive 20 Percent Uplift to Student Maintenance Loans

NI Students Set To Receive 20 Percent Uplift to Student Maintenance Loans

Economy Minister Announces 20% Increase to Student Maintenance Loans

Economy Minister Conor Murphy MLA has today announced a 20% increase in maximum student maintenance loans for the 2025/26 academic year. This follows a 40% increase in the 2023/24 academic year, demonstrating a continued commitment to supporting students facing cost of living pressures.

The maximum maintenance loan support to full-time undergraduate NI-domiciled students (with household incomes under c.£41k) will increase to the following amounts:

  • For students living at home: £6,300 (up from £5,250 in 2023/24, and £3,475 in 2022/23)
  • For students living away from home: £8,132 (up from £6,776 in 2023/24, and £4,840 in 2022/23)
  • For students living in London: £11,391 (up from £9,492 in 2023/24, and £6,780 in 2022/23)

For students with a household income above c.£41k, the maximum amount of student loan entitlement will vary based on household income.

This announcement comes as the Department for the Economy prepares to undertake a comprehensive review of the higher education funding system. This review will examine various aspects of student finance, including maintenance loans, grants, and tuition fees.
NUS-USI welcomes this significant increase in student maintenance loans. It will provide much-needed financial relief for undergraduate students struggling with the rising cost of living in Northern Ireland.
 

Student officers and students from Queen's Students' Union, Ulster University Students' Union and St. Mary's Students' Union pose for photo with Economy Minister Conor Murphy MLA. Photo taken at Queen's Students' Union.

NUS-USI President Ben Friel commented:

"This substantial increase in maintenance loans is a testament to the tireless campaigning of the student movement across Northern Ireland for more money in students' pockets. We commend the Minister for recognising the financial challenges faced by students and for taking decisive action to address this. This funding boost will enable countless students to focus on their studies without the constant worry of making ends meet."
 
"It's crucial to remember that not all students benefit from this announcement. We urge the Department to address these gaps in student support and ensure that all students, regardless of their course or level of study, have access to the financial resources they need to succeed. We look forward to engaging with the Department during the imminent Higher Education Funding review to push for a fairer and more sustainable student finance system in Northern Ireland."
 
ENDS
 

BBC NI Good Morning Ulster Interview with Ben Friel, Friday 31 January 2025

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