What can I claim on top of a student loan

Furno50

I am hoping someone might have solid information on what I can claim, on top of a standard student loan?


I am currently 45, got offered a place on a Photography and Graphic design degree course (full time) as a Mature student.
I was hoping to start 2017/2018 Academic year, but I was not able to get everything sorted for the first week of the course, so I have deferred my enrollment until 2018/2019 enrollment instead


I have never been to university, but I know that I can apply for a student loan. other than that, is there else can I apply for, to help meet my financial commitments?


I currently work full time, and did ask if I could possibly make my position part time for the duration of the course, but was told that this will not be possible. So I would have to leave this role at some point before I start the course next year.


I am happy to work part time hours (if that will increase the over all household income)
My partner is a stay at home mum, but also is a carer to my disabled mother, for which she earns £264 a month.
We have a son together (18 months old), and I have my 14 year old daughter (from previous marriage) living with me.


I own my house (mortgage £350 a month).


Before I get myself geared up to start the course next year. I want to know if it's a realistic option, or if I'm holding on to a pipe dream.


Any help / guidance will be greatly appreciated.

IAmWales

Look at studying through OU (other distance learning courses are available). Also look at your subject choice, opportunities for photography graduates are very limited. Graphic design is fine, but the photography is on a par with media studies.

Furno50

I know distance learning is possible, but I don't think I would maintain the same focus if I wasn't attending a physical lecture.


Also, the reason I added graphic design, is because I know photography is rather limited unless going self employed, but as photography is my passion, it would definitely be the subject I combine.

Loppy42

Many students these days have to work part time to cover their costs or rely on additional contributions from their parents. As a mature student, with additional responsibilities it is going to be tough, but don't let that make you give up on your dream. People do manage it.

There are scholarships, grants and bursaries available which are worth looking in to and they are not only related to specific universities or subjects, so read up on what you could apply for, plus lots of ways that students make money to supplement their income without a "proper" job, such as online freelance work (lots available in graphic design and photography), surveys and also look in to Funds4Uni.

sheramber

https://www.gov.uk/parents-learning-allowance

kw5

I have just started a Maths degree and have a similar situation, I get the full student loan for maintenance loan £8790, parents learning allowance £1617, adult dependent grant £2834. i have also just been awarded a hardship payment from the Uni to help with my twins college transport.

HTH Kirsty