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| . . . Finance - your status |
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Who You Are
No, we're not talking about status symbols or relationship availability here. We're talking about student status, because believe it or not, students aren't all eighteen and fresh-faced out of college.
More and more people are deciding to go back to study once they've been out into the work place and qualify as 'mature students'. Many students prefer to work part time in order to supplement their income. Some students are disabled or have learning difficulties which means that university can bring up different issues for them than for others.
Whatever your status this section is here to tell you, whatever your age or ability, that doing a degree is the best decision you have ever made and that with a bit of money savvy it can also be the most enjoyable.
Disabled
Disability will never stop you from getting ahead at university and now that you can receive a DSA (Disabled Students' Allowance) any additional finances you have won't get in your way either.
Both forms of disability, physical and learning (e.g. dyslexia), are catered for and the good news is that they are NOT income assessed.
There are three types of allowance:
Specialist Equipment - covers computers and furniture. Maximum of £4,155 for the entire course.
Non Medical Helpers - used for sign language helpers and notetakers. Maximum of £10,505 per year.
General Disability - used for books, tapes, Braille paper. Maximum of £1,385 per year.
The bad news is that you will need complete and up to date evidence of your disability and it has to come from a recognised source that the LEA approves.
For more details ring 0800 731 9133 and get hold of a booklet called 'Bridging The Gap' published by the DFEE.
Part Time
Part time students make up a quarter of all undergraduates, and yet they are the least visible proportion of university life.
In order to study, many students decide to work part time so that they can support themselves and still get their qualifications.
Part time students can get help towards their tuition fees if they:
Are on benefit
Have a low income
Lose their job whilst they were studying
Not before time, part time students are getting more rights at university. They are able to apply for disabled allowances and are eligible for access funds.
Mature / Independent
What is classified as a mature or independent student?
You must be 25 or older
You are married or are not financially supported by your parents
Your parents live abroad but you live in the UK
Mature students are more commonly those students aged over 21 and independent students are those that are usually not living with their parents anymore.
If you are married and your spouse's income falls below £15,070, then no financial contribution is needed from them towards your fees.
Basically if you are coming to university later in life, you are expected to be able to support yourself at university. Your LEA will help you if your financial situation is extremely dire but you must be able to prove your circumstances. Student Loans are available to independent and mature students as long as they are not over the age of 55.
If you have dependants (usually children) you may be entitled to more financial help. See your LEA for further information or check out the DFEE website.
Need help with your finances? You can ask questions and search for answers in the StudyLink discussion forums
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