Wrong Advice From SLC Should have been 'Old System' Student Help Please?

whirlygurly

Hello there,

I started an honours degree in 2004 which I withdrew from after a few months as it wasn't for me.

I then began another honours degree in 2008 which I am currently in my final year of.

In 2008 when applying for the course and speaking to the SLC I was told that my year in 2004 would be considered as a 'false start' and that I was entitled to three years more funding which was all clear and fine.

What I am confused about is that at the time they advised me to apply as a new student under the 2008 guidelines, which I did and received the full tuition fee loan, maintenance grant and loan etc.

In a recent discussion with someone they intimated I should have applyed as an old system student and would have been entitled to have my tuition fees paid by my LEA etc.

I am a mature student and my earning threshold was and still is well below the £16,000 mark which seems to be the contribution threshold.

If this is the case and I would have been better off and entitled to claim as an old system student how should I proceed?

I have scoured the net but am struggling to find any clear information. I would really appreciate any advice on this matter or pointed in the direction of any useful links before I contact student finance.
Or did I apply in the correct system after all?
All help appreciated
WG

Taiko

SFE have assessed you correctly. If you withdraw from your studies, you are treated as the type of student defined with the regulations on the date you start your course. This makes you a new style student, and therefore not eligible for a fee grant/lower fees.

whirlygurly

Thanks Taiko,

Had a feeling that might be the case but always good to check.

Best wishes , WG