It appears that university tuition fees are set to increase again for 2026, with additional proposed legislation for yearly fee increases. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson approved the increase for two years, after which the costs could continue to rise annually.
How much are tuition fees rising by in 2026?
Currently, the university tuition fees are £9,535 after going up in 2024and will rise by the inflation rate calculated in 2026. For future increases, the Government is most likely going to use the Retail Price Index (RPIx), taking away mortgage payments. If we were to go with the current inflation ratethe fees could go up to £9,900 per year.
However, to be able to charge students the full rates, universities will need to provide the highest quality of education. While the details of how said quality of universities is going to be assessed are yet to be determined, possible criteria could look like adding significant merit to the student’s academic life, as well as high graduation grades.
Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson said: “Young people from all backgrounds feel they have been let down by a system that talks about opportunity but too often fails to deliver it. This government and this white paper will change that – restoring the prestige of higher and further education so every person, in every part of our country, has the chance to get on.
“Universities charge significant fees for their courses. If they are going to charge the maximum, it is right that they deliver the world-class education students expect. These reforms will ensure value for money, higher standards across our universities and colleges and a renewed focus on the skills our economy needs.”
Chief executive of Universities UK, Vivienne Sternsaid: “Today’s white paper offers a much-needed reset for our university system. It makes clear that universities are a huge national asset, rightly admired around the world. We need them to be in great shape if we want national renewal.”
Peter Urwindirector of the Centre for Employment Research and a professor of applied economics at the University of Westminster, said: “The government rightly suggests that the further education sector is central to social mobility. However, further disruption is the last thing that is needed, and this initiative will do nothing to tackle the high number of young people not in education, employment or training (Neet).”
However, university tuition increases have been ruled out in Northern Ireland for 2026 after the economy minister rejected the proposals. Moreover, British citizens can attend university for free in Scotland.
