You’re about to start your first term as a university student. Whether you are a mature student or a teenager first time living away, life is about to get a bit more expensive. You may worry about money, especially if your university department actively discourages you from getting a part time job, and many do these days. You might be wondering precisely what government benefits you can get as a student, especially if your parents or partner can’t afford to support you.
Your Student Circumstances
What benefits you can get as a student depends on your individual circumstances. In some cases, you may even be eligible for Jobseekers Allowance (JSA) but this is all dependent on your ability and willingness to work. Being a full time student means you will not be entitled to JSA and you certainly won’t be entitled to Housing Benefit which is also work and income based. You will be entitled to something if you are a single parent or are the partner of a student though.
You will find there is more help regarding what benefits you can get as student when you study part time. If living in shared accommodation, you can claim for your share of the rent. If you have a partner (for example living in an annex or flat) only one of you may apply, but not both, even if you are both students. Income support is available to students who have little to no savings, are working during study and still struggling (but once again, part time students only).
If you are a parent, disabled or are caring for somebody who is disabled, you will be entitled to extra benefits as a student.
Where to go for Advice
If you’re concerned about whether you are eligible under any of the conditions above, or want further information of what benefits you can get as a student, there are several places you can go for advice.
• Student Advisor: your college or university should have a student advisor who can help with most things, particularly finance which is the biggest concern to university students, considering the high cost of living. They should be able to help with general queries as well as benefit specifics
• Citizens Advice Bureau: the UK’s biggest advisory service provides advice every day to people like you, students and non-students alike, who struggle with money issues (amongst other things). In lieu of other options, such as if your university can’t help you or your circumstances above may make you ineligible, visiting the local CAB could open other avenues to you
• Job centre Plus: though most employees will not necessarily know what you are entitled to as a student, most centres in large towns and cities are equipped to handle the needs of a larger population. They will have more information on what benefits you can get as a student