Scottish Universities Face Financial Crisis as Free Tuition Debate Intensifies
Dundee University nears insolvency, Edinburgh implements major cuts, and public opinion splits on funding reforms.
- Dundee University announces plans to cut 635 staff, reduce teaching by 20%, and sell buildings to address a £35m deficit.
- Edinburgh University plans to cut £140m from its budget to avoid a financial shortfall, highlighting the sector's strain.
- A recent poll shows 48% of Scots support tuition fees for students who can afford to pay, while 29% oppose this change.
- Scottish universities rely heavily on international student fees, but a 10,000-student drop in enrollment has worsened financial pressures.
- The Carnegie Trust is organizing a citizens’ jury to explore sustainable funding solutions, with findings expected in January 2026.