Extra funding options
If the basics aren't enough to fund your time as a student, consider alternative sources of funding.
Hardship Loans
If you've been approved for your student loan and haven't received it, or you've simply exhausted all funds, you can apply to the Student Loans Company for a Hardship Loan. If approved, this amounts to anything up to £500, and is repayable in the same way as a Student Loan.
Educational charities and trusts
These organisations often give money to very specific groups of students, and tend to issue small one-off payments to successful applicants. Ask around; try your LEA, Town Hall, local clergy, student union, careers services or Citizens Advice Bureau. There are also scholarships and prizes that can be awarded, so consult your college student services too.
Sponsorships
Various organisations offer sponsorships and bursaries for courses. A few of these schemes require the student to work for the organisation during holidays and after graduation. One good resource is a handbook called Sponsorship and Funding Directory 2004 (Hobsons), available in public libraries.
Career Development Loans
This is a deferred loan repayment system, run by the Department for Education and Employment (DfEE) in association with Barclays, The Co-operative, Clydesdale, and the Royal Bank of Scotland. Most high street banks now offer 'professional studies loans' which are schemes for students of medicine, dentistry, law, veterinary science and architecture.
College Access Funds
Individual colleges administer these funds locally. They are used to 'anticipate need', to act as a safety net for students, and to support innovative initiatives. Small payments may be given to cover equipment, childcare, living costs and fees.
It is best to consult your local students' union, or your student advice/counselling centre before applying for access funds. The money is usually non-repayable, but may sometimes be given as a loan in particular circumstances.
Supplementary grants
These are non-repayable, and include: Childcare Grant; Adult Dependant's Grant; Parents' Learning Allowance; Child Tax Credit from the Inland Revenue. For more information, including downloadable forms and guides, visit the Student Support section of the DfES website.
State benefits
Students in full time education do not qualify for state benefits. However, some students with disabilities or who are lone parents may be eligible for income support and housing benefit. For information on exceptions to this rule, check with the NUS, your local student services or the Employment Service.
Get a job
Many students turn to part-time work to help fund their studies. Clearly, this can help out financially, but consider the impact on your time that might otherwise be spent studying.
