Other sources of funding for university, benefits and tax
Help from charitable trusts
Some students can get help with the cost of studying from charitable trusts. There are usually very specific criteria that you need to meet to get help. For example you may have to live in a certain area, have a disability or be a lone parent. The amounts of help offered may be quite small.
Find out more from the Family Action website.
Access to Learning Fund
Once you have started a course, if you have money problems which make it difficult to continue with your studies you can apply to your college or university for money from the Access to Learning Fund – sometimes called ‘Hardship Fund’. Ask at your university welfare or student services department for more information.
Benefits and Tax
If you're a student in the UK you have to pay National Insurance and tax on your earnings just like everyone else. However because your income might vary over the year you may be due a tax refund. You can find out if you're due a refund by using the calculator on the Student Tax Advice website.
Some students may qualify for benefits and/or tax credits. See our benefits and tax pages to find out more.
