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Written question asked by Sharon Hodgson (Labour) on Thursday, 5 February 2026, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 12 February 2026 (named day). It was answered by Josh MacAlister (Labour) on Monday, 16 February 2026 on behalf of the Department for Education.

Students: Grants

Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Education, whether regional cost-of-living variations will be factored into proposed maintenance grant calculations.

Answer

This government recognises the impact that cost-of-living pressures are having on students. This is why we are reintroducing means-tested maintenance grants from the 2028/29 academic year, providing students with up to £1,000 extra support each year, regardless of their location. We will also increase maintenance loans by 2.71% in 2026/27, bringing maximum amounts to £14,135 for students living away from home and studying in London, £10,830 for students living away from home and studying outside London and £9,118 for students living at home.

We are developing options to address regional disparities in entering higher education for disadvantaged students through a new Access and Participation Task and Finish Group, chaired by Professor Kathryn Mitchell, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of the University of Derby. We are also working with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government to encourage universities to collaborate with local authorities on strategic approaches to meeting student housing needs.

Secondary information

Type
Written question
Reference
111096
Session
2024-26
Subjects
Grants Students Cost of living
Link
View this Written question on www.parliament.uk