Welsh Government Expands Student Support for Higher Education Courses Starting in 2025

The Welsh Government has announced amendments to the Education (Student Support) (Wales) Regulations 2018, set to take effect on 31 August 2025. This legislation is designed to broaden the scope of financial aid available to students pursuing higher education in Wales.

Key Changes:

1. Designation of New Courses: The new regulations specify additional courses as "designated," making students enrolling in these courses eligible for financial support. This amendment ensures that more students can access funding, aligning with section 22 of the Teaching and Higher Education Act 1998.

2. Enhanced Loan Amounts: Students attending courses provided by designated "ordinary providers" will qualify for higher tuition fee loans. This is aimed at easing the financial burden on students and encouraging them to pursue diverse educational paths.

3. Applicability: These changes will apply to academic years commencing on or after 1 September 2025. Students planning to start their higher education journey from this date can benefit from the new regulations.

4. Regulatory Impact Assessment: The Welsh Ministers have conducted a Regulatory Impact Assessment to evaluate the potential costs and benefits of these changes. This ensures that the amendments are both economically viable and beneficial for students.

Course Listings: The amendments include a detailed list of newly designated courses across a range of disciplines and institutions. These courses span various fields such as documentary photography, filmmaking, business management, esports coaching, and many more.

Institutional Impact: The regulations also identify specific course providers, such as Bath Spa University, Boomsatsuma Education, and the University of Chichester, among others, which will offer these designated courses.

With these amendments, the Welsh Government aims to provide greater educational opportunities and financial support to students across Wales, fostering a more inclusive and accessible higher education environment. For more detailed information on the courses and institutions involved, students are encouraged to consult the official documentation or contact the Welsh Government's Strategy and Funding Division.