Now Playing

Randy Crawford

One Day I'll Fly Away

Manx student loans 'are fair'

'Wider debate' needed about fees

An MHK has defended the rate of interest government charges on student loans.

Currently, those who travel off-Island to university are required to contribute £2,500 toward their tuition fees - with the remaining cost eligible for a grant.

The cost of contributions can be covered by a loan, with interest charged at five per cent per annum after graduation.

UK students are currently charged a maximum of 3.1 per cent by the authority there.

Treasury member Bill Shimmins admits a 'wider debate' needs to be had about student fees, but Manx graduates are better off:

More from Isle of Man News