YORKSHIRE students planning to go to university are urged to get their applications in before the deadline on Monday.

University applications must be with UCAS by January 15.

Bill Rammell, higher education minister, said students should be reassured by the improved student financial package.

Eligible full-time students can apply for a loan to cover tuition fees and a loan to help with their living costs.

Around half of all full-time students are likely to be eligible for a full or partial non-repayable grant.

Mr Rammell said: "With just days left until the UCAS deadline for university applications, I want students to know that no matter what their background, there should be no financial barrier to them studying at whichever university they choose.

"The improved financial package is designed to ensure that those students who need it most get the necessary financial support.

"I urge all prospective students to arm themselves with information about the improved student finance system."

Mr Rammell said repayments are linked to how much graduates earn, not how much they owe.

He said students pay back their loans when they are in work and earning more than £15,000 per year.

Mr Rammell said: "On average, graduates' starting salary repayments are as little as £5.19 per week and we have also restored non repayable grants, so overall the system is fairer and more affordable.

"Going to university is an investment in the future.

"Research has shown us that graduates earn, on average, substantially more than people with A-levels who did not go to university. Over their working life, the average graduate will earn over £100,000 more, after tax, in today's valuation, than a similar individual who completed their education with two or more A-levels."

For more information about the range of financial help available for students visit www.direct.gov.uk/ studentfinance and for more information on applying to university visit www.ucas.com