The Mongolian government is preparing to revise the living allowance provided to students studying overseas through the Educational Loan Fund (ELF), following growing concerns that the current funding no longer reflects actual living costs in several countries.

The ELF recently concluded a public consultation on a draft proposal to update the living allowance for government-sponsored students, accepting feedback until August 3. Officials are now finalizing the proposal before submitting it to the Minister of Education for approval.

The revision is being made in accordance with Section 4.1 of the regulations governing scholarships, student loans, grants, and financial support for higher education students, approved under Government Resolution No. 215 of 2025. The updated rates will apply to recipients of the Presidential Scholarship Program for the 2026–2027 academic year and will cover dormitory accommodation and food expenses.

According to the ELF, the existing allowance, which was based on the 2025–2026 academic year’s funding levels, has proven insufficient in some countries where actual dormitory fees have exceeded the allocated amount. As a result, some students were forced to pay the difference out of pocket, while others reportedly faced penalties or even the cancellation of their housing contracts due to unpaid balances.

Officials said the decision to revise the allowance was prompted not only by rising accommodation costs but also by numerous complaints and petitions submitted by students experiencing financial difficulties abroad. Following an assessment of current living expenses and housing costs in host countries, the ministry concluded that an adjustment was necessary to better reflect actual conditions.

Once the revised living allowance is officially approved, the ELF will publish detailed information, including the updated funding rates and implementation procedures, through its official website and social media channels. The revision is expected to ease the financial burden on scholarship recipients and help ensure greater stability for Mongolian students pursuing higher education overseas.