B1May 18, 2026·2 min read·259 words·5 vocab words·Source: BBC Education

MPs Warn Students Face Risk If Universities Close, Report Shows

Read at another level
A1A2B1B2C1
MPs Warn Students Face Risk If Universities Close, Report Shows
Photo: BBC Education
Listen — hands-free audio modeSwipe through today's stories at your level. Lock your screen and keep listening.
Vocabulary · Words with a dotted underline are vocabulary words — tap for an instant definition.

British Members of Parliament have warned that thousands of students could lose their qualifications and opportunities if universities go bankrupt. The MPs released a report this week highlighting serious financial problems at several UK universities.

The report states that some universities have been spending more money than they earn for years. This situation has created a crisis that threatens students' futures and their career prospects.

"Students deserve protection," said Sarah Mitchell, chair of the education committee. "If a university closes suddenly, students lose their degrees and their investment in their education."

Advertisement

The MPs identified three main problems. First, universities have lost income from international students. Second, some institutions have made poor financial decisions. Third, the government has not provided enough support during difficult times.

University leaders have responded to the report. They say they need more funding to survive. Many employers have expressed concern about the situation, as they rely on universities to train future employees.

The report recommends that the government create a protection system for students. This system would guarantee that students can complete their qualifications even if their university closes. The MPs also suggest that universities need better financial training and oversight.

Students currently studying at risk universities face uncertainty about their future. Some have started looking at transferring to other institutions. Others are waiting to see what action the government will take.

The government has promised to review the recommendations. A spokesperson said: "We are committed to supporting both students and universities through these challenging times." The education secretary will announce new policies next month.

Speak about it

Take a position. Out loud, if you can.

Four ways to start. Pick one and try saying it before you scroll on.

Tip · Record yourself, use in a notebook, or practice with a language partner.

Comprehension
Question 1 of 3

According to the article, what is one main reason universities are facing financial problems?

Grammar spotlight

Modal verbs for advice (should, must)

One point · B1 learners should be able to use 'should' to suggest what is advisable and 'must' for necessary actions.

Use 'should' to give advice or recommendations, and 'must' for strong obligations.

From this article

"Students deserve protection," said Sarah Mitchell, chair of the education committee.

What to know · B1 learners should be able to use 'should' to suggest what is advisable and 'must' for necessary actions.

Use it today

Try saying this aloud

Neutral register

Scenario: You are talking to a classmate about the recent report on university closures.

  1. 01Do you think the government will act quickly?
  2. 02I agree that students need a safety net.
  3. 03Maybe we should look for alternative courses.

Register tip · B1: simple and direct, neutral tone

🎙️ Article Audio — Kokoro TTS

MPs Warn Students Face Risk If Universities Close, Report Shows

Adapted from BBC Education · Read the original. LinguaPress rewrites the facts as original graded-reader text for language learners.

Advertisement