Higher Education Student Loan Debt Collection

Student Debt Collection

LRC have supplied their services to the HE, FE, and associated institutions for over 20 years.

Since January 2013 we have been providing student loan debt recovery services to the London Universities Purchasing Consortium (LUPC) following our successful tender bid. Our supplier framework status enables us to provide student debt collection services to its members and members of other consortia in the UK, including APUC, SUPC, NWUPC and NEUPC.

With over 20 years’ experience serving the education sector, we have gained extensive knowledge and expertise in student debt collection and the recovery of the debt types common to this sector, including tuition fees, (including overseas students), accommodation charges, commercial debts, library and parking fines.

From the start of our relationship we will:

Student Debt Collection

What is your Student Debt Recovery Process?

This has been designed to give you a brief snapshot of the student debt recovery process. It is by no means an exhaustive list, just a guide to help you understand the order of the process and to aid with decision making. For full in-depth process flows for each stage, please ask the client services team.

Stage 1 – Pre legal Collections

30-day collection cycle of data cleansing, letters, emails, calls and SMS text messages

Stage 2 – End of Collections

Decision and information gathering time if no response or payment is received for student debt recovery

Stage 3 – Legal

The issue of a claim form and the obtaining of judgement for the outstanding student debt

Stage 4 – Enforcement

When the judgment has been obtained by default you can then consider your enforcement options for the student debt recovery

Do I need to use a student debt collection service?

With more international students attending our universities colleges and private schools the need is growing year on year. Legal Recoveries are a specialist in student debt collection and have the acquired skills needed to recover unpaid tuition, loans and accommodation fees as well as other outstanding student debts that have been accrued in education.

 

What are the benefits of being LUPC Accredited?

Due to our status of being part of the LUPC supplier framework, we can provide student debt collection services to its members and other consortia in the UK. Key benefits of being on the framework include more competitive pricing/discounted fees and, importantly, means we have already been through rigorous processes to ensure we meet the needs and requirements of the framework’s members. That means that if you are part of the APUC, SUPC, NWUPC or NEPC then we can also offer our services to you.

 

What Type of Student Debt Do Legal Recoveries Help to Collect?

Legal Recoveries help you to collect a range of different student debts that can accrue over the years. If you are trying to gain back debt from overseas students, accommodation charges, tuition fees, bursaries or even library or parking fines, then we can help.

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Featured Customer Reviews

Leeds Beckett University

Overall, I think LRC provide us with a very good service. We have been with them for over 13 years now and to some extent this tells its own story. I would not have any qualms about recommending them to another University.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of student debts does Legal Recoveries & Collections recover?

LRC recovers unpaid tuition fees (home and international students), accommodation charges, library fines, parking penalties, and commercial debts related to educational institutions. We support Higher Education (HE), Further Education (FE), and associated sectors, ensuring recovery is fair and compliant with sector regulations.

How does the student debt recovery process work?

The process starts with collaboration with institutions to validate debt details, followed by pre-legal engagement such as reminder notices, emails, and payment plan options. If debts remain unresolved, Letters Before Action are issued in line with UK pre-action protocols. Persistent non-payment may lead to legal proceedings and enforcement.

Are payment plans available for students who cannot pay in full?

Yes. We arrange affordable repayment plans tailored to individual financial circumstances. This approach allows students to manage debts responsibly while continuing their studies or meeting academic requirements, reducing the need for legal escalation.

How does LRC ensure compliance with student debt regulations and data protection laws?

We strictly follow education sector guidance, GDPR, and the Data Protection Act 2018. All personal and financial data is handled securely and transparently, protecting both student rights and institutional interests.

What actions can an institution take if a student refuses to pay?

Institutions may, in line with their debt policies, withhold transcripts, prevent re-enrolment, or delay awarding qualifications until debts are cleared. LRC supports these measures while ensuring compliance with regulations and fair treatment.

How long does it typically take to recover student debts?

Resolution time depends on debt type, cooperation levels, and institutional policies. Many debts are settled within a single term, while legal or enforcement actions may extend recovery over several months. LRC keeps institutions informed throughout to manage expectations.

Can LRC recover debts from overseas students or those who have left the UK?

Yes. LRC has experience recovering debts from international students and those who have returned to their home countries. We employ tracing and cross-border recovery techniques, working with partners where necessary to maximise recovery chances while respecting international legal frameworks.

What information do institutions need to provide to start student debt recovery?

Institutions need to supply detailed debtor information, including student contact details, debt amount, invoicing history, prior communications, and evidence of institutional debt policies communicated to students. Comprehensive information improves accuracy and accelerates effective recovery action.

How does LRC handle disputes or complaints from students about debts?

We aim to resolve disputes amicably by reviewing documentation, clarifying debts, and liaising transparently with students and institutions. Where disputes cannot be resolved informally, advice on formal dispute resolution or legal options is provided, ensuring fair treatment throughout.

How does student debt collection support universities’ financial stability?

Effective student debt collection improves cash flow, enabling institutions to maintain high-quality education and services. By recovering outstanding fees and related charges efficiently and ethically, LRC helps minimise financial losses while supporting institutional sustainability and student success.

Get in Touch with Us

If you have any questions about our service or would like to discuss your matters with us in greater detail, please contact the Business Development Team on 0330 024 6342