University secures agreement for its student access support plans

The University has today (26 July) received approval for its plans to provide financial support for students under national arrangements to ensure students from lower income families can access higher education.

Kent is one of 150 universities and colleges to receive approval for its proposals - outlined in an Access Agreement – from the Office for Fair Access (OFFA).

The government will make funding available to students under its National Scholarship Programme (NSP). The University will match fund the NSP and make an additional £5.2m available in 2013, rising to £7.1m by 2015, to provide financial support to students.

This support will be targeted at two cohorts: in line with government requirements for receipt of NSP funding, those whose household incomes are below £25,000, and those whose household incomes are below £42,600. In addition, the University will also retain its Partner School and College Scholarship Scheme.

Denise Everitt, University Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Finance and Commercial Services), said: ‘We will provide a minimum of £9000 of funding for eligible students which will be available in their first year of study.

‘This will mean eligible students will receive a £7000 fee waiver, a £1000 cash bursary and £1000 worth of credit on their university account in their first year of study. Furthermore, the University will award this package to those whose household incomes fall below £42,600. We anticipate we will provide this level of support to over 550 students in 2013.

‘As part of its Access Agreement, the University will also provide an extensive outreach programme to partner schools, FE colleges and local communities to encourage learners of all ages to study in higher education.

‘We will continue to grow the student ambassador scheme as part of our outreach commitment since this scheme contributes towards the rich student experience at the University. The University’s outreach programme is funded, in addition to the funds outlined above, at £1.3m.'

Contact: pressoffice@kent.ac.uk

Story published at 4:18pm 8 August 2012