Around 22,000 students in the UK are facing demands to repay maintenance loans and childcare grants after the Department for Education (DfE) ruled that their weekend courses were incorrectly categorized, rendering them ineligible for these financial supports. The affected courses span 15 universities and colleges, including notable institutions like London Metropolitan University and Oxford Brookes University. In response, universities have expressed their deep concern over the abrupt blocking of payments and are exploring legal options against the DfE. While some institutions are attempting to modify courses to meet eligibility criteria, others have confirmed that certain students, such as those enrolled in a bachelor's degree in acupuncture, may still qualify for the loans. Education Secretary Bridget Phillipson stated that the government is committed to addressing issues related to university franchising arrangements and emphasized the need for universities to support students who may face financial hardships as a result of this situation. The DfE's actions come amid a crackdown on fraudulent activities associated with these arrangements, raising questions about governance and oversight within the university sector.