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Study Reveals Half of Living Costs Uncovered for Students

8/12/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A recent study by the Higher Education Policy Institute uncovers a troubling reality: maintenance loans in England only cover half of students' living expenses. With first-year students requiring £21,126 annually but receiving a maximum of just £10,544, this financial shortfall threatens to widen the gap in access to higher education, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.

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Story summary

A recent study by the Higher Education Policy Institute uncovers a troubling reality: maintenance loans in England only cover half of students' living expenses. With first-year students requiring £21,126 annually but receiving a maximum of just £10,544, this financial shortfall threatens to widen the gap in access to higher education, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds.