AQW 38288/22-27

Ms Kate Nicholl
Alliance Party
South Belfast

Tabled Date: 15/01/2026
Answered On Date: 28/01/2026
Priority Written: No

Question:
To ask the Minister for the Economy to detail how her Department will ensure flexible study pathways and financial parity for part-time students balancing work, family, and study responsibilities, to drive inclusive and fair economic growth.

Answer:

Engagement is continuing on the development of draft Terms of Reference for a wider Review of Higher Education Funding.

It is proposed that the review will include consideration of the financial support available to students, including whether current arrangements remain appropriate and whether support should be extended beyond its existing scope. This will encompass examination of how financial support can better enable and enhance a range of study modes, including part‑time and more flexible pathways.

The overall timeframe for the review will be determined once the Terms of Reference are finalised and subject to the availability of resources.