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Student Finance & Mature students

Hi,I am hoping to go to university soon as a mature student & before I commit I need to be certain that I can finance the next 3 years. I have been on the loans calculator and government sites and it all seems fairly straight forward if you are straight from school and living away from home, however I dont fit into that group so would be grateful for any advice. Firstly my partner works full time, I believe from other peoples posts that overtime is taken into account despite not being guaranteed?? Also my partner does have dependent children that dont live with us, two at school and one at university and he does pay a significant amount towards them (This is done voluntarily not through the CSA) please could you advise if this is taken into account when calculating household income?? Also I currently work 30 hrs per week, one option I am considering is reducing my hours to 15 if my employer will allow it. Will this count as part of the household income and result in me getting a smaller loan?? or will it be viewed in the same way as if I was living away from my parents and I am purely topping up my loan?? If it is classed as part of the household income could I get round it by resigning my post and then going back on a zero hours contract?? this would not be my preferred choice as I will lose holiday / sick benefits. Also, do savings get taken into account?? I am in the process of selling my house and I am hoping to save some of this money to set me up in business once I am qualified. Thank you in advance for any advice / help you can give :)

Comments

  • Taiko
    Taiko Posts: 2,729 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    Paragraphs?

    What are your highest current qualifications?
  • I have a BTEC HNC, which I funded, and I have never undertaken any degree course or received any student finance
  • Taiko
    Taiko Posts: 2,729 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    How many years did it take you to complete the HNC?

    What is the course you're looking to attend now?
  • My HNC was two years part time. I am now looking to do Bsc hons in veterinary physiotherapy
  • Taiko
    Taiko Posts: 2,729 Forumite
    Part of the Furniture 1,000 Posts Name Dropper
    No help with tuition fees in year one of the course, nor would you get a maintenance grant in year one.

    No grants available for the children, as they do not live with you.

    From the 2nd year onwards, you'd qualify for fee support and also the maintenance grant subject to an income assessment.
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