What is a "student" for Council Tax reduction .....

Ettenna

Is it FE or HE? I can't seem to find an answer

I am starting a National Diploma in Health & Social Care at college. I am a mature learner

TIA

atypical

From the Directgov website:

"You’ll usually be considered a full-time student for Council Tax purposes if:

• you attend a university or college course lasting for at least one academic year - as long as you attend for at least 24 weeks out of the year and study for at least 21 hours per week during term time, or
• you’re under 20 and your course leads to a qualification up to (but not above) A level standard or equivalent - as long as it lasts for more than three months and involves more than 12 hours of study per week

But not all courses count towards ‘full-time student’ status. For example, it doesn’t usually apply to distance learning or evening classes. Also, you won’t be considered a full-time student if you’re doing a course related to your job - such as day release.

You must also be studying at a ‘prescribed place of education’. This will include established universities and most colleges. Ultimately, though, it’s up to your local council to decide - if there’s any doubt, check with them."

CIS

A National Diploma is Higher Education

Magnolia

CIS wrote: »

A National Diploma is Higher Education

No it isnt - a Higher National Diploma is HE Btec Nat Dip is FE

Oldernotwiser

Absolutely right. A National Diploma is a level 3 course, equivalent to A levels.

Impet_Limpet

atypical wrote: »

Also, you won’t be considered a full-time student if you’re doing a course related to your job - such as day release.

I think foundation degrees are slightly diffferent. I'm released from work one day a week for my foundation degree and classified as full time student - I believe it's because we are considered to do over 21 hours a week as our work is considered on the job training.
The info from direct gov is quite interesting though - potentially, could you be on a full time course but not considered to meet 21 hours a week due to few lectures? - or does that include time spent on "self directed study"?

MrsManda

Martine1081 wrote: »

The info from direct gov is quite interesting though - potentially, could you be on a full time course but not considered to meet 21 hours a week due to few lectures? - or does that include time spent on "self directed study"?

I don't know about other councils but the councils I've lived in since being a student (3 I think) just required my registration certificate from my university. As this states that I am registered as a full-time student I got the discount. I've never been asked about how many hours I do.

student_advisor

The 21 hours includes guided learning hours (classes etc) and self-study. Many courses, especially degrees, do not have anywhere near 21 hours of contact time per week, but you are expected to do more in your own time.

jeffy22

I'm about to becoma a student, How do i inform my council that I am now in full time education and need the council tax discount (my partner works)

Lokolo

jeffy22 wrote: »

I'm about to becoma a student, How do i inform my council that I am now in full time education and need the council tax discount (my partner works)

I just sent a letter informing them.

student_advisor

jeffy22 wrote: »

I'm about to becoma a student, How do i inform my council that I am now in full time education and need the council tax discount (my partner works)

Your institution should provide a council tax exemption certificate which you will need to send to the council to get your discount.

You'll need to check with your institution to see whether they are sent out to you, whether you need to request it etc.