Fees boost for Scots studying abroad

 Originally published: 07.05.2009

All Scottish university students taking part in overseas exchange programmes will have their fees paid for them from next year under Scottish Government plans.

Currently, some 300 students a year pay up to £1000 to study at international universities outside Europe in contrast to those visiting European universities under the Erasmus initiative, where students don't have to pay fees.

However, Fiona Hyslop, the Education Secretary, has unveiled proposals which will mean that, from the next academic year, all eligible students on recognised exchange programmes will get full fee support from the Student Awards Agency for Scotland.

"These changes will help tackle some of the financial barriers to students' participation in exchange programmes in countries such as Australia, Canada, China, New Zealand and the United States," she said.

Stephen Magee, vice-principal in charge of external relations at St Andrews University welcomed the proposals.

"This commitment comes at a time when Scottish universities are consolidating their already significant presence on the international stage and are looking to exploit a growing number of opportunities for Scottish students to study across the world."