CURRENT students and those leaving to join courses this year will benefit from reduced university fees.

But the deal will last only until 2012, at which point everything could change.

Education announced the development after the latest round of discussions with Guernsey, Jersey, the Isle of Man and Universities UK.

Under current arrangements, student fees are divided into four bands. In each of these bands fees for Guernsey students starting in September, and those continuing their studies, will be reduced by about 5%.

Education minister Carol Steere (pictured) said the department was aware of big changes in university funding expected in September 2012, which would allow establishments to charge up to £9,000 a year to offset the economic cost of delivering courses. But it was keen to ensure students continued to get a good deal while it negotiated a new agreement.

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