Help - Mother looking to going to Uni - Entitlements?

hodders

I was wondering if anyone could help me. I am looking at doing a degree but I am not sure what I would be entitled to. I have looked at direct.gov but some if it is not very clear.

I am married, so I am guessing that would mean I wouldn't be entitled to very much, especially as my Husband takes home about £30k a year.

However, I have 2 children and I would need to put them both in childcare.

Does anyone have any ideas of what I could get? I need to know whether we are going to be able to afford it before I go much further.

MrsManda

Have you filled out the student finance calculator on direct.gov?
This will give you a rough idea to the grants, loans and tuition fee loans you'll be entitled to.
Then you may be able to get Parent's Learning Allowance and a Childcare Grant to cover some of your childcare costs and also may be able to claim child tax credits.

hodders

Yes thanks MrsManda, I have done a quick calculation, but I really need to know about PLA and the Childcare Grant. We do also claim tax credits at the moment and I am guessing we may be able to claim a bit more.

khublaikhan

Your local LEA - local education authority should be a port of call on your list. They will be able to provide you with most answers - prepare beforehand, make an appointment and take list of questions to ask.

Taiko

Why are you referring to an LEA? LEA's have been closed down for new students, it's all central now.

hodders

Thanks Taiko

I have just rung Student Finance Support, but she was unable to give me a figure of what I would be entitled to, just said if my Husband earns less than £50k I will be entitled to something.

Taiko

As I mentioned in your other thread, I'll do some calculations for you at a later date when I'm back in the office and my head is clearer.