Latest ONS survey reveals impact of cost of living crisis on university students

• 92% said cost of living has increased compared to a year ago
• More than 9 in 10 (91%) students were either somewhat or very worried about the rising cost of living
• 46% of students reported their mental health and well-being had worsened since the start of the autumn term 2022
• More than three-quarters (78%) of students were concerned that the rising cost of living may affect how well they do in their studies

According to the ONS survey, which was released today, 92% of students revealed that their cost of living had increased over the past year with bills making up the lion share of their expenses. The survey also found that 46% of respondents reported their mental health and well-being had worsened.

In total, 1,965 students from across England took part in the survey which aimed to explore the impact of the crisis on students in higher education. More than three quarters (78%) of students admitted they were concerned that the rising cost of living may affect how well they do in their studies.

The survey is a follow up to an earlier study done in November 2022. UUK which represents 140 universities has been working alongside its members to better understand the scale of the issue in the hope of offering better support to students during these difficult times. Informed by shared practice and taking inspiration from member institutions, the work is being led by Professor Karen Cox, Vice Chancellor and President of the University of Kent.

Universities across the country have already been working hard to offer a wide range of support to help reduce the impact of the cost-of-living crisis on students, despite dealing with financial pressures themselves.

The University of Kent has introduced a range of initiatives to help support students with accommodation costs. Since the start of the academic year, the university has fixed accommodation prices with utility bills included in the cost. They have also provided students access to hardship funding, all day £3 meal deals and a campus food pantry.

Many universities across the UK are now tailoring a portion of their support to the most vulnerable student groups. For example, Greenwich University first year students are entitled to an accommodation bursary of up to £700. The university also offers students from low-income backgrounds a commuter bursary of up to £1000 a year to help cover rising travel costs. Undergraduate and postgraduate students from low-income backgrounds at the university are also eligible for financial assistance of up to £200 one off to support with energy bills.

Stirling University offers its care experienced, estranged students and student carers the option to apply for an additional annual bursary to assist with study costs, and a graduation bursary to assist with gown hire and photographs. Students at the university with children are also entitled to childcare and lone parent childcare grants. The university also offers an accommodation enhancement fund, which provides financial assistance towards rent costs.

Sunderland University and other universities in the North East have come together to provide extra support to care experienced students. Through the Northeast Raising Aspiration Partnership (NERAP) five universities in the region (Durham, Newcastle, Northumbria, Sunderland and Teesside) have committed to offering support to care-experienced students throughout their higher education journey.