To ask Her Majesty's Government what assessment they have made of the sustainability of the current university funding model.
Answered on
10 November 2020
We have a progressive student finance system which delivers a fair balance of costs between graduates and taxpayers, while ensuring going to university is affordable for all who choose to do so. The government subsidises around 50% of the cost of higher education. This level of subsidy is an important and conscious investment in the long-term skills of the nation and ensures access to university for all with the potential to benefit from it.
An independent panel, chaired by Philip Augar, undertook a review of post-18 education and funding at the behest of the government in 2018–19. This included an extensive programme of engagement and a call for evidence.
The government is carefully examining the Augar Report and its recommendations as part of the wider Post-18 Education Review. We are considering a response alongside the Spending Review, with a view to providing certainty to providers and students.