University students hit by 'never-ending cost-of-living crisis'

STUDENTS are facing a "never-ending cost-of-living crisis" as maintenance loans continue to fall short of costs, it has been warned.

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University students are spending an average of £1,142 a month, rising to £1,269 in London, an annual survey by Save The Student has found, leaving them with an average shortfall of £500 a month.

The research also found that average parent contributions have fallen to £146 a month from £171 in 2024, the lowest seen since 2021. Particularly large declines in parent contributions were reported by students from middle-income families.