Colleges Scotland has commented on a new report highlights the disparity in income and financial stress some students face following the publication of the Student Finance and Wellbeing Study Scotland which shows: 

• Across all student groups, education related income was not enough to cover student expenses. This issue was most prevalent among FE students.
• The majority of students work far more than the recommended 1-15 hours a week alongside studying.
• 47% of FE students who reported financial difficulties said they skipped meals. Around 1 in 6 FE students reported that they had accessed foodbanks as a result of their financial difficulties.
• Around half of students said financial difficulties affected their mental health and wellbeing ‘a great deal’ or ‘a fair amount’, with students from under-represented groups more likely to say this.

Claire Vekic, Policy Officer at Colleges Scotland, said: “The headline that between half and two-thirds of students experienced financial difficulty during the last academic year, with FE students and students from under-represented groups more likely to say this, should be a prompt for everyone in the system to consider how college students are supported.

“Most students in Scotland have their tuition fees paid by the Scottish Government, however it is concerning that a significant proportion of students still face considerable financial difficulties that impact their study choices and experiences, including their wellbeing. The financial support available to college students now needs to be examined closely. Colleges Scotland wants to work with the Scottish Government to ensure that students have the best opportunities without worrying about the cost. It is vital to have a system that is equitable across all types of post-school education. 

“Gaining a college qualification is the key to increasing opportunities and boosting personal income, so the financial challenges facing college students can’t and shouldn’t be ignored.”