Politicians have been warned not to ignore the student vote.

The National Union of Students said on Monday that college and university students make up about 13 per cent of the electorate and could make the difference to the result in many marginal constituencies.

With over five million members, most of which are eligible to vote, the NUS claimed the government and opposition parties should pay more attention to the views of young people and others in full time education.

Liberal Democrat leader Charles Kennedy has already made a direct appeal for their support.

At the last election Tony Blair acknowledged the level of doorstep anger over tuition fees and the Lib Dems believe they can win marginal seats such as Cardiff Central on the strength of student support.

The NUS wants the charges to be scrapped and more financial support to be given to British and overseas students, but will not be recommending its members vote for any particular party.

"With over five million members we have a powerful voting strength," president Kat Fletcher said.

"Students represent around 13 per cent of the electorate.

"This is potentially a huge number of votes which could swing the outcome of the election in constituencies across the country.

"What we are saying to MPs is get to know your students. We have many faces and our policy goals are dynamic and diverse."