Minister proposes to increase Postgraduate Tuition Fees Loans

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald has launched a consultation seeking views on the future level of Postgraduate Tuition Fee Loans for students.

The consultation invites feedback on four proposed options for the maximum loan amount, which currently stands at £6,500. The Minister’s preferred option is to increase the loan to £10,000.

Minister Archibald said: “Higher education plays a vital role in equipping our workforce with the advanced skills and knowledge needed to drive innovation, attract investment and support a thriving economy.

“It is essential that access to financial support for postgraduate study is fair and equitable. That is why my Department has already announced a 20% increase to the maximum student maintenance loan available to full-time undergraduate students from this academic year. And that is why my intention is to increase the maximum Postgraduate Tuition Fee Loan from £6,500 to £10,000.”

Postgraduate tuition fees loans were last reviewed in 2021. This latest review is part of the Department for the Economy’s commitment to reassess the scheme every three years.

The Minister added: "No one with the ambition to learn should be held back by financial barriers. I encourage everyone with an interest in postgraduate education to take part in this important consultation.”