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Paying for your studies

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The average debt for graduates is £11K and is likely to rise this year as tuition fees rocket to £3000 per year. Many students in the UK rely on student loans for finance throughout the duration of their University life.

The following are sources of funding and income which you could be entitled to:

	Local Education authority (LEA) Your local LEA may be able to offer you assistance with your tuition fees, depending on your circumstances such as your personal financial position and that of your parents. You need to apply to your LEA (i.e. the one local to your current home, not the local one for your university). You can also apply to your LEA for a Student Loan for help with living costs while you are studying. This loan is then repaid only when you start full-time work, as a small percentage of your salary. Part of your Student Loan entitlement will be based on your parents’ income.

	Disabled Students Allowances (DSA) Students with disabilities may be eligible for a Disabled Students Allowance which can help with costs incurred whilst at University such as attending courses. This is different from a student loan as it DOES NOT have to be repaid. Contact your Local Education Authority for further information.

	Lone Parents Grant Single-Parent students have the opportunity to try to claim a Lone Parent Grant. This will supplement your income and could provide you with that extra cash you need in order to continue your studies. Your Local Education Authority will be able to provide you with further information and advice.

	Student Loans The Student Loans Company provide student loans for help with living costs while you are studying at University/college. They are usually paid to you in three instalments throughout the year. You will need to apply each year of your course as the amount you receive is dependent on your personal income as well as that of your parents. Contact your Local Education Authority for more information and guidance on applying for a Student Loan.

	Hardship Loans If you are facing extreme hardship as a result of expenses and living costs while you are studying at university, you may be eligible to apply for a hardship loan. These are administered through the university/college student welfare/support services. You can only apply for a hardship loan if you have already applied for a student loan. Your college/University will be able to provide you with further information.

	Council Tax Good news! If you live in either a hall of residence or shared house/flat with other students, you will be exempt from paying Council Tax.

Department for Education & Skills (Dfes) Tel: 0870 000 2288 dfes.gov.uk National Union of Students (NUS) nusonline.co.uk Council for International Education ukcosa.org.uk Support for Learning support4learning4.co.uk

Student Loans Company (SLC) slc.co.uk Trainee Teachers canteach.gov.uk Funderfinder funderfinder.org.uk Scholarship Search scholarship-search.org.uk

	The National Bureau for Students with Disabilities (SKILL) skill.org.uk

	Local Education Authority (LEA) IMPORTANT: You need to apply to the LEA where you currently live prior starting your University/college course.

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