Story perspectives

Student Loan Debts Surge: Calls for Fairer Regulations

1/30/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Graduates from 2012 onwards may now owe about £23,900, up from £9,100 on a £20,000 starting salary.
The repayment threshold will rise with inflation, not earnings, increasing long-term payments.
Campaigners including Martin Lewis argue borrowers were misled about loan terms.
The government has faced criticism for not regulating these loans like commercial lending.
A Department for Education spokesperson said reforms are underway to create a fairer student finance system.

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Story summary

Graduates from 2012 onwards may now owe about £23,900, up from £9,100 on a £20,000 starting salary.
The repayment threshold will rise with inflation, not earnings, increasing long-term payments.
Campaigners including Martin Lewis argue borrowers were misled about loan terms.
The government has faced criticism for not regulating these loans like commercial lending.
A Department for Education spokesperson said reforms are underway to create a fairer student finance system.