Unlocking Student Support: New Welsh Regulations Bring More Courses Under Financial Aid Umbrella

The Welsh Government has introduced amendments to the Education (Student Support) (Wales) Regulations 2018, broadening the financial support available to students. This change, effective from 31 August 2025, designates additional courses as eligible for student financial aid, offering a lifeline to those pursuing higher education.

What's New?

1. Expanded Course List: The 2025 amendment specifies new courses as "designated," making them eligible for student support. This means more students can access financial help for a wider range of courses starting on or after 1 September 2025.

2. Higher Tuition Fee Loans: The updated regulations treat providers of these newly designated courses as "ordinary providers." This classification allows students to qualify for higher tuition fee loans, easing the financial burden of studying.

3. Impact Assessment: The Welsh Ministers have conducted a Regulatory Impact Assessment, weighing the costs and benefits of these changes. This ensures that the new regulations are both beneficial and sustainable for students and educational institutions alike.

Courses and Providers

The amendment includes a diverse range of courses across various institutions. From contemporary circus with physical theatre at Circomedia to esports coaching and management at the College of Esports, the list is extensive. Other notable inclusions are courses in filmmaking, professional music, and business management offered by institutions like Bath Spa University and the University Campus of Football Business.

Why It Matters

These changes reflect a commitment to expanding educational opportunities and making higher education more accessible. By increasing the number of courses eligible for support, the Welsh Government is investing in the future of its students, ensuring they have the resources needed to pursue their academic and career goals.

Next Steps

Students and educational providers should review the new course listings and understand the implications for tuition fee loans. For those interested in the specifics of the regulatory impact assessment, copies are available from the Welsh Government's Strategy and Funding Division.

This move marks a significant step in supporting Welsh students, demonstrating a proactive approach to education policy that prioritizes accessibility and financial support.