No Future Rise in the Cap on Variable Tuition Fees

The 2009 Department of Employment and Learning review of Variable Fees and Student Finance arrangements will examine the higher education funding system in Northern Ireland. The outcome of the review will determine future policy on undergraduate student tuition fees and the financial support available to students at university.

Currently, variable tuition fees are capped at a maximum of just over £3000 per annum. One of the aspects the review will examine is the upper limit for tuition fees, and the question of raising the cap. The review will report its findings in 2010, and the Minister for Employment and Learning will consider its reports before submitting recommendations on the level of fees.

This is a unique opportunity for students to have an input into the fees charged by institutions. NUS-USI believes any rise in fees will burden students with unsustainable levels of debt; limit choices potential students can make when selecting their institution; and reduce opportunities for students from lower socio-economic backgrounds.

While the review considers the impact of the funding system on institutions and students, it is critical that students make it clear throughout that any rise in the current cap on variable fees will have a harmful impact on university applications, diversity of student body, retention rates and student debt.

Throughout the review process in 2009 and 2010, we will deliver regular updates on the number of signatures to the Chair of the review of Variable Fees and Student Finance arrangements Department of Employment and Learning; Queen’s University Belfast; University of Ulster; Stranmillis University College; St. Mary’s University College; Association of Northern Ireland Colleges; Open University; Education and Library Boards.

We will submit the petition to the Chair of the review and Minister for Employment and Learning once the review closes in 2010 for the writing-up stage.

Now is the time for Northern Ireland’s students to say no to any future rise of the current cap on student tuition fees.

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