Overview

• Universities warn of significant deficits due to frozen tuition fees and a drop in international student numbers.
• Tuition fees in England have been capped at £9,250 since 2017, falling in real value over time.
• A proposed increase to £12,500 is seen as necessary for financial sustainability, though a smaller rise is more likely.
• Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson acknowledges the complexity of the issue, promising attention but no immediate solutions.
• Government and university leaders explore various options, including budget cuts and increased government investment.