Funding for EU students secured until 2021

University students from the European Union (EU) will have their funding at English universities continued until 2021.

Following the government’s announcement, student loans and grants will remain accessible to EU students going into undergraduate or master degrees from autumn 2018. The same allowance stands for courses that finish after the UK has left the EU.

Some international students may also be eligible for funding lasting until 2022 if they are on a four-year degree. All funding for students at each level of further education will remain secured. This includes undergraduate level, masters, postgraduate, and advanced-learner loans.

EU students are charged the same amount of tuition fees as UK students as they are eligible for home fee status. However, non-EU international students do not share the same price of fees and have to pay a higher amount.

Research council PhD studentships at British institutions will also remain available to EU students from 2018 to 2019, helping to pay for costs of their study.

Universities minister, Jo Johnson, said: “We have been clear about our commitment to the UK’s world-class higher education sector. A key part of our success is attracting talent from across the globe.”

“This will provide reassurance to the brightest minds from across Europe to continue applying to study in the UK, safe in the knowledge financial assistance is available if needed.”

Acting-director of the Russell Group of universities, Dr Tim Bradshaw, explained: “This announcement gives EU students the certainty they need when considering studying in the UK as well as giving our universities clarity to plan ahead.”

“EU students make a huge contribution to the dynamism and culture at Russell Group campuses and we look forward to welcoming future students. Our universities will always remain open to new ideas and talent from across the world.”

He added: “We are also pleased that EU nationals will continue to be able to apply for research council PhD studentships. Postgraduate research students are vital to the economy and to maintaining and enhancing the country’s strengths in research and innovation. It’s important that the UK continues to attract the brightest and best.”