You could get extra money from your university or college if you’re experiencing financial hardship. You may be, for example:
a student with children, especially single parents
a mature student with existing financial commitments
from a low-income family
disabled
a student that was previously in care (a ‘care leaver’)
homeless or living in a foyer

What you’ll get
The amount you can get is decided by your university or college. It’s paid in a lump sum or instalments.
You usually won’t have to pay the money back, but in some cases you’ll get a loan that you have to repay.

How to apply
Contact the student services department at your university or college - they’ll decide if you qualify.

You’ll need:
a copy of your letter from Student Finance England showing how much student finance you’ll get
documents about your finances eg bank statements and rent details


Money from your university or college won’t usually be counted as income when working out your entitlement to benefits or tax credits, unless it’s for day-to-day living costs.

From 16 years

Contact the student services department at your university or college

Term Time Only

No

No