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Complicated fees 'could deter' future graduates
News Article Published:
Thursday, 15 November 2007 Category:
Top-up fees
The introduction of top-up fees in England and Wales had led to the creation of a student funding system that is so convoluted, it could put many prospective students off going to university altogether, research suggests.
A report commissioned by Million+, which represents former polytechnic universities, indicated that some students have been put off applying for further studies because they cannot get their heads around the funding situation.
And a removal of the current £3,070 cap on fees, expected in 2009, will only exacerbate the situation, the report warns.
The Guardian reports Les Ebdon, chair of Million+, as saying: "This report is a reality check for us all. If widening participation remains a goal, there is a strong argument to streamline future arrangements for a more holistic approach."
Last month, the Conservatives called for a planned government review of tuition fees, scheduled to begin in two years time, to commence immediately so that there is enough time to collect data and analyse the new system.