Universities say they are supporting students through the “big worry” of financial pressures as drop-out rates hit a record high.

New statistics from the Student Loan Company found more than 9,000 more students nationally had dropped out of their courses in the past five years.

The figures are being linked to the financial stress of university amid the cost of living crisis.

The University of Brighton and University of Sussex both said they were providing support to students who needed it most.

A University of Brighton spokesman said: “Our focus is on giving each of our students the support they need to complete their course and we have a range of support available to help our students deal with any challenges they may be facing.

“We know that finances can be a big worry for some students, not just here in Brighton but at universities across the UK. We give our students access to a huge support network, which includes help with all aspects of their finances as well as with their mental health and wellbeing.

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The spokesman said the university had allocated more than £3 million of hardship funding, scholarships and bursaries to students over the last year and also highlighted its cost of living response team.

The new student loan figures show a 28 per cent rise in students dropping out of courses compared with five years ago.

Many students have cited the growing costs of further education which have been exacerbated by the cost of living crisis.

A University of Sussex spokeswoman said: “The start of a new academic year is an exciting time for students but we understand that many may be concerned about finances.

“Sussex offers sector-leading support to our students, including subsidised, healthy £2 meals, financial support for those struggling with rising living costs and a capped rent scheme for students experiencing hardship. We also offer wellbeing support and provide resources to help students with money management."

Brighton and Sussex students have been returning to the city over the past week ahead of the start of a new academic year.