Increase student loan debt in Scotland

Scotland's students are drowning in a soaring level of debt - and it's the poorest being hit the hardest.

When people start trying to pay off all the money borrowed during their studies, they're in the red by an average £13,800.

An official report says the figure is up from £6,000 ten years ago.

Student loan debt is up two point four billion pounds over the last decade.

The total value owed hit five-and-a-half billion last year.

This hike in the debt bill is largely down to an increase on what students could borrow in 2012.

The report from Audit Scotland says students from poorer backgrounds are hardest hit.

They recommend means tested bursaries to support those who might struggle.

Caroline Gardner, Auditor General for Scotland, said: "Student loans are only one part of the package of student support but they represent a significant investment by the Scottish Government.

"These loans need to be repaid in full by either the students or the state so it's important that the figures are clearly reported to ensure the costs are sustainable and the impact on individual students is understood."

As of 2009, any debt owed 30 years after graduation will be written off.

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