Study whilst on IS/DLA

Bryando

I'm looking at going to college to gain some Highers via evening classes if the college do this.

However.... I get Income Support and DLA and currently study via the Open University(OU). My cources via the OU are paid for me.

Can anybody tell me how many hours per week I can study, with no effect to my Income Support? Unsure if my time doing OU work may make it a no go for college.

If I 'was' to go full time at college , do you think I might still be able to claim Income Support? I noticed that some circumstances this can happen, unsure if I come into this?

Finally... As my OU cources are paid by the Scottish Goverment, would my college cource be paid? The cources I'm keen on are Highers, in England these would be 'A' levels I think.


The job front is dire around here, in fact think this area came top according to the UK Goverment. Therefore, think me getting out and gaing more qualifications can only aid my mental health. As well as voluntary work.

Thanks

Robbie64

As long as the course isn't classed as full time you'll be fine for Income Support.

Depending on the reasons why you get DLA you may need to inform DLA unit in Blackpool if you start your course.

magicstrawberry

Full time study is not necessary a problem. They take into account any grants or financial assistance you receive (some grants wont be counted) and also if your course contradicts your disability. Also if your OU course was at a higher level than the course you wish to do at the college its unlikely you will get any funding but it doesnt mean you cant do it.

I'd say don't be dishearted and go for it. If your worried speak to the college or to a welfare rights officer.

Oldernotwiser

Is there a reason why you're thinking of doing Highers? There doesn't seem to me to be much point in doing a lower level qual;fication alongside degree level study. Wouldn't you be better to put all your energies into doing well in your degree?

Bryando

I just feel I should have them to be honest. During my days at school I was in and out hospital as well as battling bullying and sexuality issues. Therefore, my Standard Grades (GCSE England) were pretty poor. However as a 'mature student' the college appears to be more open to applicants. I would like to get qualifications bumping up my Maths for a start, probably need to start just below Higher. English another and a science and/or a social science ie Politics/Psychology.

I can understand what you mean with a Degree being of higher value. However I think this is to settle my mind in a way. The degree I am doing via the OU is Law. Doing very very well, so has given me a great boost.

Bryando

In relation to DLA..... I have not got a clue if I need to inform them to be frank. Get high rate care due to my mental health and low mobility again due to mental health.

Oldernotwiser

Bryando wrote: »

I just feel I should have them to be honest. During my days at school I was in and out hospital as well as battling bullying and sexuality issues. Therefore, my Standard Grades (GCSE England) were pretty poor. However as a 'mature student' the college appears to be more open to applicants. I would like to get qualifications bumping up my Maths for a start, probably need to start just below Higher. English another and a science and/or a social science ie Politics/Psychology.

I can understand what you mean with a Degree being of higher value. However I think this is to settle my mind in a way. The degree I am doing via the OU is Law. Doing very very well, so has given me a great boost.

Apart from making sure you've got really good grades for GCSE English and Maths (or equivalent) I really wouldn't bother. It would be much better for both your future employment and self esteem to get a first or good 2:1 for your degree than to get a 2:2 or third in your degree and a couple of A levels/Highers.

Bryando

Even though gaining my degree is in the distance at this stage. The thought of getting a 2.2 or a third is one that I dread. I have yet to go to an examination room and sit for three hours, that shall be next year. This is the only thing that to be honest makes me at times want to walk away. Lack of confidence and ability I think.

GlasweJen

There's nothing wrong with a 2:2 to be honest, unless you want to enter a graduate scheme. Most employers are looking for employability skills rather than a grade.

Bryando

Not within the legal word it aint. Do I want that life, who knows to early to say. All I want is two Law degrees, English and Scottish. )

[Deleted User]

Do you get IS due to incapacity?if so they can decide that if you are fit to study you are fit to work