The government is making it more expensive for middle-class children starting at university in 2009. Maintenance grants are being reduced for children from families earning between £25,000 and £50,000.

The reduction will be some 90% - down to £50 against the current year at £538 currently on offer. To compensate, the government is raising the amount they can borrow at the special student loan rate. At a family income of £50,000, a student will be able to take out a loan of £4925 pa, as against £4207 in the present academic year.