We must not gatekeep access to university | Letters

2026-03-10 - 17:52

Readers respond to comments by Birmingham University’s Adam Tickell on whether students without A-levels should be eligible for loans The proposals to review student loan eligibility for those without A-levels raises an important question about access to higher education (Vice-chancellor calls for review into student loans for those without A-levels, 6 March). As someone who entered university without A-levels, I find the suggestion frustrating. I graduated with a first-class bachelor’s degree in engineering from a former polytechnic and later completed a master’s degree in engineering at a redbrick university. I have also repaid my student loan in full, helped by lower fees, better repayment terms and a means-tested grant towards part of my living expenses. Continue reading...