Thousands of Students Face Loan Repayment Demands Over 'Mis-Sold' Weekend Courses
Students Stunned by Repayment Orders
More than 20,000 students undertaking weekend courses have received demands from the Student Loans Company (SLC) or their respective universities to immediately repay maintenance loans and childcare grants. These students were informed that their courses were never eligible for the financial support they had received.
A letter from the SLC, seen by the BBC, stated that universities had provided incorrect information, failing to disclose that attendance was solely at weekends. Consequently, any "over-payment" must now be reimbursed.
Institutional Dispute and Government Stance
The issue affects courses at approximately 15 universities and colleges, including prominent institutions such as London Met, Bath Spa, and Oxford Brookes. These courses typically featured in-person weekend teaching, with some also incorporating online learning during the week.
In a joint statement, the affected institutions, via Universities UK, claimed the problem arose from an "abrupt" government decision and indicated they are exploring legal challenges. They emphasised their primary focus is supporting the affected students.
However, the Department for Education has placed blame on "incompetence or abuse of the system" by the institutions, stating that students have been let down. The Education Secretary, Bridget Phillipson, urged universities to "take immediate action to support students who will face financial difficulties."
Financial Hardship and Uncertainty
Many students, often from working-class backgrounds who balance work during the week to improve future career prospects, are facing significant financial distress. Khawaja Ahsan, a student completing a BSc in cyber security, faces repaying £14,335, including a childcare grant. He described feeling "betrayed and massively let down," highlighting the impossibility of finding such a lump sum.
While a small number of students pursuing a four-year BSc in acupuncture have had their payments reinstated after an appeal regarding their course structure, the vast majority of the 22,000 students remain in limbo. The National Union of Students (NUS) president, Amira Campbell, described students as "devastated," stressing the urgent need for reassurance that they will not be forced into immediate, substantial repayments.
The SLC has advised students experiencing "financial difficulties" to seek extra help, suggesting universities may offer support. Meanwhile, some universities are attempting to modify courses or transfer students to ensure continued eligibility for future loans, though this does not alter the repayment expectation for funds already received.
