WINCHESTER UNIVERSITY FEES LEAKED TO NATIONAL NEWSPAPER

Governors at the University of Winchester have refused to deny that students could pay £7,500 a year for tuition from 2012.

Speculation in The Times suggests that the amount has been agreed on, despite no official word from university officials.

When quizzed by WINOL Vice Chancellor Tommy Geddes refused to comment.

The news follows a tumultuous few months for universities, in which the coalition government has come under increasing pressure from students following the publication of the Browne Review.

Students at Winchester University currently pay £3,290 a year in tuition. Under government plans universities could charge up to £9,000. Many are unsure they would be at the university if they were charged the proposed amount.

Josh Finch, an accounts student, said: “It would be too much to come to university. You could look to do something else like get an apprenticeship, where it would be cheaper. And you're actually learning the skills day to day, instead of actually paying to learn and then coming out with the debt.”

Tom Mereweather, who is studying for a business management degree, said: “I wouldn't be here if I was being charged £7,500. It's really too much for a university like Winchester.”

However, some students are worried about getting good value for money, not increased fees.

Steven Phillips, a sports science student, said: “In the long run even though the fees are quite high the university itself is quite good so hopefully the quality of degree I would get would help me a get a job.”

An official announcement is expected in the next few months. Any final decision on fees will be subject to approval from the Office for Fair Access.

By Kieran Brannigan