adult student finance advice..

natwahxx

Hi there I am 25 and currently in college studying an Access to HE Diploma. I am hoping to get to university next year. I work part time and have had to drop my hours to focus on my college studies as the University course I am applying to requires me to obtain a distinction in every module of my current course. I applied for some funding towards my college fees in septemeber but was told that I was not eligible for any funding as I was over 24 and was in part-time work. I have to pay £1800 and am paying it monthly. This takes out a fair chunk of my wages and i am really struggling as i pay rent, travel expenses, and other living costs. does anyone know of any adult learning funds/loans i could apply for just to see me through to the end of my course (june).....anything will help right now! Also I have tried the NHS as thats who I am working for and am applying to do Physiotherapy at University yet the NHS wouldn't help...charming!

MrsManda

Have you spoken to your college's support services to see if you can apply for something via their Discretionary Learners Support Fund?
http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/EducationAndLearning/AdultLearning/FinancialHelpForAdultLearners/index.htm

I can see why the NHS wouldn't be willing to fund your studies while at college as though they pay fees for some courses your current course won't directly benefit the NHS.

Is there no way you can increase your hours at work?

Put your details into one of the benefits calculators to see if you can claim anything through the benefits system.
https://www.dwpe-services.direct.gov.uk/portal/page/portal/ba/lp?_piref278_36249_278_36248_36248.__ora_navig=

http://www.turn2us.org.uk/benefits_search.aspx

It may also be worth going on the Debtfreewannabe board and seeing if you can reduce your outgoings.