Student loan system ''phenomenally complicated''

20 Nov 2009

An expert has said that the student loans system needs to be simplified.

A leading independent guide to UK universities and student finance has called on the student loans and grants system to be simplified in order to make life easier for those taking degree courses.

The BBC reported recently that three-quarters of universities have had to increase hardship payments to students who are facing delays in receiving their loans - estimated to be around 70,000 individuals.

According to Johnny Rich, editor of Push.co.uk, the funding system is "phenomenally complicated" and needs to be reviewed to avoid the situation some students have been thrown into.

He said: "People don''t understand the system. Even those who do understand the system, don''t understand it if you try and scratch the surface.

"[It] doesn''t necessarily need to change in terms of the structure but it does need to be made to work."

Those considering pursuing degree qualifications in a cheaper and flexible manner may want to opt for distance learning courses, which are tailored to fit around work schedules.