Support for part-time study and disabled students: consultation analysis - summary of Citizen Space findings (strand 1)

Questions for the Higher Education (HE) and Further Education (FE) sector, training providers, third sector and interested organisations: 57 responses from 39 institutions and organisations, and 18 individuals.

84% Felt introducing living cost support for part-time or distance learning study might affect their institution’s course provision (Question 5). Stakeholders commented that it could increase demand for flexible learning options, encourage institutions to create new courses or programmes, and support retention rates.

70% Agreed that the eligibility criteria for living cost support for part-time or distance learning study should be the same as for full-time study (Question 6).

32% Felt the current eligibility criteria for the Part-Time Fee Grant focus on supporting students who need it most. 68% disagreed (Question 9). In comments, there were widespread calls for individual income thresholds to be higher.

96% Felt that part-time and distance learning first-degree students should be included in the official data measuring progress towards the Scottish Government’s target to increase the proportion of SIMD-20 learners entering higher education (Question 11).

39% Felt FE disabled students should be able to apply for a dedicated allowance to support their disability/impairment needs (Question 23), while 33% felt colleges should continue to deliver all aspects of support for FE disabled students.

If you would like to find out more, please see the Scottish Government website for more information on the consultation or to read the full consultation findings report.