Embargoed until
00.01, Monday 9 May 2011
A public information campaign for prospective students and their
parents about changes to the student finance system in 2012 is
being launched today.
The press, radio, media partnership
and social media campaign links students and parents to a new
dedicated Direct.gov.uk microsite which describes how the
tuition loan system will operate, how to get a student loan,
help with living costs and what support is available from
government.
Universities and Science Minister David Willetts said:
“We must ensure that prospective students are not put off
applying to university because they do not understand the new
system. Going to university depends on ability – not the ability
to pay.
"New students will not pay upfront costs, there will be
more financial support for those from poorer families and everyone
will make lower loan repayments than they do under the current
system once they are in well paid work.
“A university degree is an excellent investment in your future.
Students and their families need to know that applying for student
finance is quick and easy and can be done on-line.”
Notes to editors:
To view the new Directgov website visit
www.direct.gov.uk/yourfutureTo review campaign material go to
http://www.bis.gov.uk/news/topstories/2011/May/student-finance-campaign
(live from 9am Monday 9 May 2011) The initial phase of the
campaign will cost £ 1.5 million.
Contacts:
BIS Press Office
NDS.BIS@coi.gsi.gov.uk