A consultation has been launched into the possible introduction of maintenance loans in Further Education for learners aged 19 and above at levels 4-6. 

The loans “on a par with the level of support available in Higher Education” and for people who attend specialist, higher-level providers, could encourage learners towards institutions outside their local area, such as National Colleges and Institutes of Technology and promote the provision of technical and professional education.

Apprenticeships are currently excluded from the proposals.

The deadline for responses to the consultation is 16 June 2016.