Radical reform is being proposed to the way £3bn is spent each year on Scotland's universities, colleges, skills and apprenticeships.
The changes could potentially affect more than half a million learners and researchers, including the loans and grants the students receive.
In the 2021 election, the SNP said these would be extended to part-time learners.
Ministers now want the awards system to extend to apprentice funding.
It would mean at least three large government agencies being replaced.
Graeme Dey, the Holyrood minister responsible for post-school education, has outlined a plan for one agency, with a budget of more £3bn.
It would replace the Scottish Funding Council, which allocates resources to higher and further education, along with the Student Awards Agency Scotland.
