As a result of the plan introduced by the LibDem junior coalition partners in the Scottish Assembly, the fees have been abolished. Students now contribute to their education upon graduation by payment to the graduate endowment scheme. The plan means that higher education in Scotland is free at point of access. Liberal Democrats argued against tuition fees on prinicpal as well as on practical grounds. Education should be free if people are to make life and course choices freely.
Maintenance is treated seperately.
Maintenance arrangements have also been overhauled for Scottish students. The Graduate endowment scheme is independent of a student's background. It involves payment of 2,000 from graduates whose education has benefitted them by raising their salary. Under this system individuals are considered as the recepients, consumers and beneficiaries of education and not their parents. Individuals are freed from dependence on their parents which is a major reason that people from lower socio-economic backgrounds do not move away from university.