Universal Credit after graduating

radioj

Hi everyone. I'm just finishing a Master's degree and am applying for jobs, although obviously it's a bit difficult at the moment. Am running out of money and have no other income. With this in mind, I have been looking into applying for universal credit.

My question is, will applying now - early - help speed up my claim, or should I just wait until I officially cease to be a student (which is 23 September)? I'm not entitled to any UC right now (no kids or anything) but will be entitled as of 23 September, if I haven't found work. Thanks

radioj

One thing I've just thought is that if I apply now, while I'm ineligible due to student status, I'll forfeit my right to an advance - I think? Whereas if I apply on 23 Sept, the day I cease to be a student and may be unemployed, I can ask for an advance.

poppy12345

You will not be able to apply while you're offically still a student, you will need to wait until September.

radioj

Fair, thanks. It looks like there is a questionnaire at the beginning of the application process which would prevent me from applying at the moment.