NUS Scotland calls for student support reform as government consultation highlights barriers for disabled and part-time learners.
NUS Scotland has welcomed the Scottish Government’s publication of consultation findings on support for part-time and disabled students, branding them clear evidence that more support is needed to meet student needs.
The findings highlight that while flexible study is a lifeline for disabled students and those with caring responsibilities, the complexity of the current system remains a major hurdle. Respondents showed ‘widespread agreement’ on the need for simpler, more accessible support and ‘strong support’ for extending living cost support to part-time and distance learners.
In its 2026 Scottish Student Manifesto: A Fair Deal for Our Future, NUS Scotland is calling for:
- Student financial support tied to the Real Living Wage for all students in higher and further education.
- Reform of Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) to make it simpler to access and better publicised.
With the Scottish election approaching in May, the union is calling on all political parties to commit to these reforms to ensure no student is priced out of education.
Commenting, NUS Scotland President Sai Shraddha S. Viswanathan said:
"This consultation confirms what students have been saying for years: flexible study is vital, but without proper financial support, the cost of living remains a massive barrier.”
"We were glad to see the Scottish Government undertake this consultation and welcome their stated commitment to consider the findings and ensure that student support meets the needs of Scotland’s students.”
“However, students right now are struggling to pay the bills. We need politicians from every party to back the student manifesto and commit to a support system that works for all, including part-time and disabled students.”
