OFFA

The Office for Fair Access (OFFA) was established as part of the government bill that will see the introduction of variable tuition fees from 2006. It is a public body, independent of any government department, which aims to ensure fair access into higher education for those in what are described as "under represented groups". The office is led by the Director of Fair Access, currently Sir Martin Harris.

OFFA's director requires all publicly funded universities in England that wish to charge variable fees to submit an Access Agreement. This document should state how the institution would promote fair access for all, especially for those students from low-income families. Such agreements will often cover issues such as financial support and outreach work.

Without agreements approved by OFFA, universities and other higher education institutions will not be able to charge full time students fees above the standard level.