In response to today’s announcement from the Government that tuition fees will increase Rob Tucker, BMA’s Medical Students' Committee Chair, said:

“This announcement of increase tuition fees for already stretched medical student is frustrating and represents a continued failure to address the current medical student funding crisis. Undergraduate medical degrees last 5-6 years in the UK, and we know that most medical students suffer from a large drop in their maintenance loan support during their final years, due to a poorly managed, complex bursary system. If the government wants to ‘build an NHS fit for the future’ then it must recognise that the future of the NHS depends entirely on its workforce, and saddling medical students with additional debt that already can rise above £100,000 threatens the future recruitment of doctors. 

“Ultimately, this decision risks deterring bright, eager students from pursuing higher education due to affordability. It introduces yet another barrier for students from disadvantaged backgrounds to join the medical profession. The BMA has previously called for the government to cover loan repayments whilst doctors are employed in the NHS to prevent medical students from seeking better pay and conditions abroad. Yet today’s decision may force many capable students to choose shorter, three-year programs in other careers to avoid overwhelming debt.”    

ENDS

Notes to editors

The BMA is a professional association and trade union representing and negotiating on behalf of all doctors in the UK. A leading voice advocating for outstanding health care and a healthy population. An association providing members with excellent individual services and support throughout their lives.