Written question asked by Jim Cousins (Labour) on Thursday, 15 January 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 20 January 2004. It was answered by Alan Johnson (Labour) on Tuesday, 20 January 2004 on behalf of the Department for Education and Skills.

Dept for Education and Skills

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills, what the age limit is on eligibility for student loans; and how he proposes to change that in the event of a repayment period capped at 25 years.

Answer: Mr. Cousins: To ask the Secretary of State for Education and Skills what the age limit is on eligibility for student loans; and how he proposes to change that in the event of a repayment period capped at 25 years. [149636] Alan Johnson: The age limit is 50 for eligible students meeting the residence requirements. Those aged 50 to 54 at the start of their course can also apply for a student loan provided that they plan to return to work after finishing their course. We have no plans to change the age limits. We already cancel loans when a borrower reaches the age of 65. We also intend to put a 25 year cap on the loan repayment period, so that outstanding loan amounts are written off after 25 years (or age 65, whichever is the earlier).

Secondary information