BEIJING — Financial aid of 156 billion yuan ($23.4 billion) was given to students across China in 2015, up 9.78 percent year on year, the Ministry of Education said on Aug 25.

There were 84 million grants in total, supporting many different types of education, ranging from preschool education to higher education, the ministry said.

Student grants have seen strong growth for nine consecutive years, according to the ministry.

In addition, textbook and meal subsidies worth 45 billion yuan were also offered to students nationwide.

“China’s student aid system covers all stages of education including public and private schools, and all students in financial difficulties,” said Tian Zuyin, head of the China National Center for Student Financial Aid.