Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word or phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 38 to 42. Fill in the appropriate word in question 39 The popular image of student life is of young people with few responsibilities enjoying themselves and (38) _____ very little work. This is often not true. Many older people now study at college or university, sometimes (39) _____ a part-time basis while having a job and ...

Read the following passage and mark the letter A, B, C or D on your answer sheet to indicate the correct word or phrase that best fits each of the numbered blanks from 38 to 42. Fill in the appropriate word in question 39

The popular image of student life is of young people with few responsibilities enjoying themselves and (38) _____ very little work. This is often not true. Many older people now study at college or university, sometimes (39) _____ a part-time basis while having a job and looking after a family. These students are often highly motivated and work very hard.

Younger students are often thought to be lazy and careless about money (40) _____ this situation is changing. In Britain reduced government support for higher education means that students can no longer rely on having their expenses paid for them. Formerly, students received a grant towards their living expenses. Now most can only get a loan (41) _____ has to be paid back. Since 1999 they have paid over £1,000 towards tuition fees and this amount will increase up to a maximum of £3,000. In the US students already have to pay for tuition and room and board.

Many get a financial aid package which may include grants, scholarships and loans. The fear of having large debts places (42) _____ pressure on students and many take part-time jobs during the term and work full-time in the vacations.