Financing for equity in higher education
NORTHERN IRELAND
1. Education resources to subnational governments
2. Education resources to institutions
3. Education resources to students
4. Support for students' living costs
Introduction
Key financing indicators (UIS Data)
In the United Kingdom, the gross enrolment ratio for tertiary education was 79.73% in 2022. In 2021, initial government funding per tertiary student amounted to 38.88% of GDP per capita. Data on initial household funding per tertiary student as a percentage of GDP per capita was 3.22% in 2021.
Tuition-free status
In Northern Ireland, tuition is not free, but the government sets a maximum tuition fee. For the 2025/26 academic year, the maximum fee for new eligible full-time undergraduate students is GBP 4,855.
Governance
In Northern Ireland, higher education governance differs from other parts of the UK, as there is no independent funding council. The higher education division within the Department for Education (DfE) is responsible for both policy formulation and funding administration, effectively combining the roles of government department and funding council.
1. Education resources to subnational governments
Funding is allocated directly to universities by the DfE’s higher education division, with no separate subnational funding mechanisms in place.
2. Education resources to institutions
Funding for private universities in the absence of public institutions
Most tertiary institutions in Northern Ireland are public, and the government does not provide funding to private universities.
Allocation and equity
Northern Ireland has three universities, two university colleges, six further education colleges, and an agri-food and land-based college. Universities are autonomous and have full discretion over the use of their funding. Grant payments are governed by Articles 30 and 66 of the 1993 and 1986 Education and Libraries (Northern Ireland) Orders. The allocation formula is designed to enhance universities’ research capabilities and quality, support long-term sustainability, contribute to the economy and community, widen access for under-represented groups, improve teaching and learning standards, and ensure effective governance of university affairs.
3. Education resources to students
Admission for vulnerable groups
Information was not found.
Scholarships, grants and loans for vulnerable groups
Childcare Grant and Parents’ Learning Allowance
Students with dependent children may receive financial support to cover childcare and learning-related costs. The Childcare Grant provides up to GBP 255 per week, while the Parents’ Learning Allowance provides up to GBP 1,538 per year.
Disabled Students' Allowance
The Disabled Students' Allowance offers up to GBP 25,000 per year to cover additional costs arising from a disability. Funds can be used for specialised equipment, non-medical helpers, transport, or other disability-related needs.
Maintenance Grant and Special Support Grant
These grants assist with accommodation and living costs and are awarded based on household income. Students with incomes of GBP 19,203 or less may receive up to GBP 3,475 per year, while those with incomes between GBP 19,203 and GBP 41,065 may receive partial support.
Support Funds
Administered by the Department for the Economy through higher education institutions, Support Funds cover tuition or living costs not met by other grants, emergency payments, and exceptional expenses. Universities and colleges determine eligibility, award amounts, and payment schedules. Bursaries and awards may also be offered locally, with a minimum of GBP 485 for students receiving full Maintenance or Special Support Grants.
Student Loans
Two types of student loans are available: the Tuition Fee Loan, paid directly to the university to cover tuition, and the Maintenance Loan, which helps with living costs. Students living at home attending college in Northern Ireland may receive up to GBP 5,250, while those studying in London may receive up to GBP 9,492.
4. Support for students’ living costs
Transportation
The Disabled Students' Allowance can be used to cover extra travel costs for students with disabilities.
Accommodation
Some universities or colleges may offer discounts on accommodation as a part of their bursary payments.
Textbooks
Some universities or colleges may offer discounts on textbooks as a part of their bursary payments.
