Students: Part-time Education
The question
To ask the Secretary of State for Education, how many students were affected by the withdrawal of (a) maintenance loans and (b) grants linked to (i) weekend and (ii) flexible learning courses.
Answered by Josh MacAlister
As of 20 May 2026, the department is aware of 24,689 students that have been affected by the issue of higher education providers incorrectly classifying weekend-only courses on the Student Loans Company’s (SLC) course management system.
The number of affected students is based on the latest data submitted by providers to the SLC. This number may differ from previously reported figures due to updated data submitted by providers.
The SLC and the Office for Students are working closely with providers to ensure students are given the necessary support and advice, including access to hardship support where appropriate
To provide clarity for students, we have instructed the SLC to recover loan payments through the student loan system in line with existing loan terms, and to pause any action on recovery of targeted grant funding until at least September while we review the position.
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