The National Union of Students will produce a protocol for "sensible and flexible ways" in which universities can collect fees in the wake of the announcement that students owe an estimated Pounds 15 million.
An NUS spokesman said that the protocol is likely to insist on fees being paid in instalments throughout the year and over longer periods for students with financial difficulties. It also wants no charges levied on instalment payments and no expulsions for those who fail to pay.
The NUS will seek the Committee of Vice-Chancellors and Principals' approval. A CVCP survey in June revealed that this year's undergraduates have outstanding fees of Pounds 15 million. About Pounds 135 million has been collected.