Rising university fees push more Manx students to consider studying locally

UK fees are set to rise by a little under £300, despite Labour's pledge to abolish them

As university fees continue to rise in the UK, more Manx students are exploring study options closer to home rather than heading abroad.

This trend follows a steady increase in university fees, with undergraduate tuition fees in England set to reach £9,535 per year in 2025 - an increase of £285 from the previous cap of £9,250, which has held steady since 2017.

Isle of Man Education Minister Daphne Caine notes that, since the Coronavirus pandemic, around half of Manx school leavers have continued to choose UK universities, but a growing number are opting to remain on the Island to pursue further education.

The decision, driven in part by economic concerns and the increasing financial burden of UK university fees, is understood to be reshaping the educational landscape for Manx students.

With the rise in tuition fees, coupled with a broader cost-of-living increase, many school leavers are re-evaluating the financial feasibility of studying in the UK.

While the UK government plans to increase maintenance loans, which the National Union of Students says will "make a real difference" for students from low-income families, the overall increase in tuition costs has left many students and families feeling the pinch.

Some students have expressed concern over taking on significant debt, particularly in an uncertain economic climate.

In response, the Isle of Man is seeing a rise in interest in local further education opportunities, allowing students to gain qualifications without the expense and pressures of living abroad.

UK Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson has hinted at upcoming "major reform" to bolster long-term university investment, though further details are yet to be announced.

However, for many Manx families, the current rise in fees has already prompted a shift in thinking—potentially creating new demand for higher education options within the Isle of Man.

As more students consider staying on the Island, there may be further calls for expanding local tertiary education opportunities, ensuring Manx students have access to quality education that’s more financially viable.

Manx Radio's Chanelle Sukhoo has been speaking with those affected by the changes: