7 September 2007
Changes to funding for equivalent or lower level qualifications
The Chairman of HEFCE has received a letter, 'New Higher Education Funding Incentives 2008-11' (see below) from the Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills about changes to the way institutions are funded for students that study for a qualification that is equivalent to or lower than one they have already gained.
HEFCE Chairman David Young said:
'The Secretary of State has looked at the Government's key priorities for higher education in relation to the spending review and considered whether public funding paid to institutions is fully aligned with them. In this context the Government has decided to phase out support given to institutions for students studying for a qualification which is equivalent to, or at a lower level than, a qualification that they have already achieved. We have been asked to implement this policy.
'We will consult the sector on implementing this policy in time for the change to begin to take effect in 2008-09. As part of this consultation we will consider transitional arrangements for institutions that might be most affected in the short term. These matters will be considered at the HEFCE Board meeting on 20 September. We plan to launch a consultation on proposed changes in early October 2007.
'We welcome the Government's promise in the letter to continue increasing support for higher education and look forward to receiving the full details of the Comprehensive Spending Review (CSR) settlement and strategic priorities.'
DIUS letter about equivalent or lower level qualifications
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