Finance is high on the list or prioritise for many students, it is important to know you have enough money to live on through out the duration of your studies.
On this page you can find links and guides to your finance options and we have added information on all of the types of funding you may be able to access during your time as a student.
Student Finance
Student Finance is complex but there are experts that are available to support you. You can access Student Finance England, Wales and Scotland's advice pages and information via our website at the following link: Student Finance.
There are some things to be mindful of when investigating and applying for student finance. Here are our top tips:
- Research and prepare:- Before you start your application, we advise making sure you have everything that you will need to hand. This will help you apply on time without any missing documents which may cause a delay in you receiving your funding.
- Apply on time- Find out the deadline and make sure you are on time. This will ensure your finance is in place when you need it.
- Apply EVERY year. You do nee dot reapply for finance each year. Make sure you know your deadlines and remember to apply on time.
- Household income:- For MOST care experienced students this should be £00.00 meaning you can access the full loans. However there are complexities around this so make sure you have done your research and know what information you will need.
- Paperwork:- You maybe required to confirm the information you have provide dis correct so work with your PA or Key Worker to make sure you have access to everything that you will need.
Bursaries
Most universities and Higher Education course providers offer a financial bursary for their care experienced learners. This is a sum of money that is awarded to you but you do not needed pay it back. Check out individual websites and the Become/Propel website to see what you could be entitled to.
Bursaries can be attractive and we understand that financial support can ease the worry you may have around student finance. However, it is important that you prioritise choosing your course and campus over a financial benefit. If the course and campus aren't right, this may impact on your happiness and well being, which in turn could impact on how well you do on your course, and may even lead to dropping out.
Local Authority Offer
Local Authorities all have an offer to support their care leaver students. You will need to meet the statutory definitions to qualify. Your PA or Key worker can ensure this is all in place for you.
You can find out what your local authority offers at the following website: Care Leaver Local Offer
If you do not meet the statutory definition of a care leaver but have been previously looked after there may still be support available. Contact your local authority to find out your options.
Hardship funds
Most education providers have a Hardship Fund. This is a pot of money that you can apply to access if you are in financial difficulties. The Hardship teams generally have an application form and will be able to guide and support you through the process.
Jobs and Working
Many students have part time jobs to support their finances whilst they study. We strongly recommend working 20 hours per week, or less so that you can prioritise your studies.
A great option is working as an ambassador at your university. These are paid, flexible roles and are also great for developing your skills and building your CV.
Post Graduate Study
There is an option to apply for student finance for your Post Graduate study. Again, visit our pages and guides from Student Finance to discover what is available for you: Student Finance
Some universities are also offering bursaries for PG Study, and we are happy to be starting to see this more and more across the sector. Check out the finance pages on your institutions website to see what is available.
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