Edge Hill unveils Bursaries for 2006

Edge Hill College of Higher Education has set out its tuition fees proposals that will mean more money for students and more affordable higher education for everyone.

From 2006, when top up fees of £3,000 are introduced, Edge Hill students whose families earn less than around £15,000 per year will be entitled to £1,000 annual bursary, and those on less than around £33,000 will receive £500 per year.

Scholarships worth £1,000 and £2,000 will also be offered to students who demonstrate excellence. And an additional £250,000 will be available to provide extra support for those with disabilities.

In addition to bursaries and scholarships, which can be taken as cash or fee remission, siblings will have their fees reduced by £1,000 per year, in an effort to ease the financial burden on families. On top of this, all eligible students will receive a £200 privilege card, irrespective of bursary entitlement, to pay for a range of study materials.

Edge Hill is to set aside around 50% of the additional income generated from fees to fund its package of bursaries, scholarships and improved student facilties. This will ensure that it continues to secure its position in the top five higher education institutions to recruit students from low participation neighbourhoods.

Edge Hill?s Chief Executive John Cater said that the package should support around 50-60% of Edge Hill students.

"We have already made a positive impact to the student learning experience by investing £60m over ten years to produce one of the best campuses in the North West. Our fees policy is specifically targeted at those in need and supports the principle of fair access that has been at the heart of our admissions strategy for many years.

This package of financial support will help to maintain our position as a major provider of higher education for mature students, first generation students, students from low income families and those from low participation neighbourhoods."

In 2006 students and parents will not have to pay up-front fees for courses unless they choose to do so. Loans for the annual £3,000 fee will be available, with students making repayments through the income tax system when they start to earn £15,000 a year.

Stephen Parker, Edge Hill?s Student Union President is backing Edge Hill?s fees proposals.

"The introduction of top-up fees was disappointing but I think Edge Hill?s offer is one of the best deals around for students. On the whole students will be have more cash to spend on living costs in 2006 than they do now, and everyone will receive a privilege card to help pay for essential study items. The bursaries and scholarships will go directly to students during their time here, when they need it most. I think it's important to stress that graduates secure better paid jobs and earn higher salaries over their lifetime than those without a degree, so the investment really is worthwhile."

ENDS

EDITOR?S NOTES:

Edge Hill Excellence Scholarships of £1,000 or £2,000 will be awarded for:

Excellence in Sport Excellence in Performing Arts Excellence in Creative Arts Excellence in Volunteering Excellence in Academic Achievement Excellence through Access

For further press information please contact:

Roisin Rowley-Smith PR Manager Tel: 01695 584509 Fax: 01695 584355 E mail: rowlesr@edgehill.ac.uk or pressoffice@edgehill.ac.uk