Student/Lone Parent/Wonderwoman!!

djdido2

Hi

Ok just want some advice/support/feedback.

I am a single parent, work nights and work part-time so that I get Tax Credits that top up my earnings. I have a mortgage that I am just about managing. However, I really really more than anything want to return to full time education (possibly University but if not an Access Course) but don't see how I could manage it financially!!!

Would I be entitled to any Student Loans/Grants etc. Council Tax Discounts and such like?!

Any help really appreciated!!

(I know its last minute but I had a dream last night lol and really think if I want it so much I just have to go for it!!)

red_buttons

Hiya

I think you would need to speak to your LEA about finances. But I am sure that the university would offer you something. I would contact different universities that have courses you are interested in, and see if they still have any places left, that way you know if you need to then go on to think about the funding.

I think although I am not sure, that most universities have an access to learning fund (ALF) which they give out to eligible candidates, (I think).

I don't know how to do links, but I know there is a thread on here about ALF, perhaps someone could post it on for you.

In short, I'd see what courses are still out there first, because I imagine the undergrads are trying to get places now having just got their results.

Make contact with the universities I am sure they will want to help you.

I hope this helps a bit.



Just thought, I'm sure students are council tax exempt.

mummytofour

College funding is a hard one. uni a lot easier.
I woudl suggets that you contact job centre plus and see what they say.
Is there anyway you can work and study, even if its just for this one yr.
My Access course is only 2 days a week.
Good luck.

student_advisor

First thing to do is to is to get a careers appointment. Your local college should offer an independent service, alternatively try LearnDirect

They will be able to help steer you in the right direction course-wise and then look at the path you will need to take. It is easier to give financial info when you know which course you're doing.

For an indication of the funding available for different courses, have a look at direct.gov.uk for further education (Access courses) or higher education
(uni).

scotslass33

Hi djdido2

I'm a single parent, working 16 hours per week, mortgage etc and I'm going into my second year at uni, I'm full-time at uni which is only 20 hours per week.

I get the full student loan amount plus a child bursary, and because of being a full-time student I do not pay any council tax. The student loans/bursary does not affect tax credit payments at all.

I done a full-time HNC first at college (25 hrs) to gain the required grades to get into uni and again this was all done through student finance. The only down side being the amount of student debt I have to look forward to paying off when I graduate, but only when earning 15,000+.

If you need any more info let me know.

scotslass33

jovichick123

Hiya!

Not much to add financially - Scotslass covered it all! Just wanted to say that it is perfectly do-able, I started uni when DS was 5 months old, am about to go into third year and am very, very glad I went with my instincts and started my course... If you're sure it's what you want - go for it!!

Good luck!

Sarah xx