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<p>We are increasing the overall amount of cash in hand we provide students to support
the cost of living to the highest ever amount. For new full-time students starting
their courses on or after 1 August 2016, maintenance grants will be replaced by maintenance
loans. Eligible students on low incomes will qualify for a maximum maintenance loan
that is 10.3% higher than the maximum maintenance grant and loan support available
in 2015/16. Higher education remains free at the point of entry, with students able
to fund their studies through loans which they only repay when they are earning above
£21,000.</p><p>All institutions wishing to charge fees above the basic level must
agree an Access Agreement with the independent Director of Fair Access. In July, the
Director of Fair Access announced that he has approved 183 Access Agreements for 2016/17.
Institutions expect to spend £745.5m on widening access in 2016/17, rising to £750.8m
in 2019/20.</p><p> </p>
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