“We’re concerned students haven’t realised the true implications of the Government’s decision to convert maintenance grants to loans,” said the University’s Vice Chancellor Bill Rammell.

“Those who are eligible for a student grant and have qualifications to attend this year should not defer their place but should apply now. Otherwise they will potentially lose three years’ worth of non-re-payable funding.”

Students who do apply this year and are eligible for grants will continue to receive them for the full term of their undergraduate studies. Over a three year degree programme that could be as much as £10,000. The full annual grant stands at £3,387.

Last year almost 70% of the University of Bedfordshire’s students found they were eligible for the non-repayable grant.

Mr Rammell said: “I’m concerned that the move from maintenance grants to loans could make life much more difficult for students from low-income and disadvantaged backgrounds who wish to make the life-changing decision to go to university.

“I really want to urge potential students not to put off the decision to go to university and miss out on an opportunity to change their lives forever.”

Bedfordshire is working hard to tackle the problems of inequality and diversity. It offers one of the most generous student finance packages in the country and is expecting to award over 5,000 scholarships and bursaries to students starting in September.

The Vice Chancellor said: “My message to students is; whatever your background or ability, you can flourish here at Bedfordshire.”

The University opened its Clearing hotline yesterday; taking over 3000 calls in the first day alone, with over 100 specialist and academic staff ready to take calls from students considering their options.

Any students wanting advice can call 0300 3300 703 to speak to a member of the admissions team or take a look at the University’s Clearing website www.beds.ac.uk/makeithappen