THE BROWNE REPORT 2010: BRIEFING FOR PARENTS
Why was the Browne Report necessary?
- For many years, universities have lacked adequate funding.
- Top up fees were introduced in 2004. It was agreed that they would be reviewed.
- The global recession has radically affected public sector funding and further increased the need for higher university fees
What does the Browne Report recommend?
- University fees will rise from the current £3290 pa
- Although the Browne Report itself has set no upper limit, it is likely that a cap (perhaps between £6 and 9k) will be set as the bill progresses through parliament.
- As at present, that this sum will be paid directly to the university by a loan organisation on behalf of the student who will then repay the sum directly from salary once in employment.
- Living costs will also be managed as at present. Again there will be a loan, this time given directly to the student who will repay it as above.
- Parents are not required to make any contribution. As for many years, they may choose to support living costs if they wish.
- The review evidences a central government emphasis on Strategically Important and Vulnerable subjects (SIVs). These include science and technology subjects, clinical medicine, nursing and other healthcare degrees, as well as strategically important language courses. SIVs are traditionally the domain of pupils from the independent sector.
Which are the most welcome aspects of the Browne Report?
- Fees not required up-front
- Loan repayment only begins above a salary of £21,000 (The Browne report gives an example repayment table which shows that a young person earning £25,000 would repay £30 per month or around £7 per week).
- Debts are cancelled after 30 years.
- Repayments are not required during maternity/paternity career breaks
- Repayment money will be ring-fenced .
- UCAS will be a central portal for student finance as well as application.
How will the situation affect universities?
- Universities will become more accountable to students as a result of the increased fee.
- There will be more pressure to produce courses that can rival the attractions of US and European universities.
- In the short term at least, universities in Scotland and N Ireland are likely to become more popular as they will have lower fees for the time being.
- In the longer term, undergraduate numbers may fall and the distinction between the more prestigious, research-based, universities and their non-research-based counterparts may become greater. Some less prestigious universities may have to restructure or even close.