A guide to government student grants in the UK

In the United Kingdom, there are many ways in which prospective students and their families can secure funding for college and university. It is important that they educate themselves about the varied options and make decisions according to their needs. This article outlines some the ways to secure government grants to finance education in the UK.

Full-time student grants

Parents and students can find different types of funding for post-secondary education. These include student grants, loans, including graduate loans, bursaries, scholarships and awards. Full-time students
Grants are available for full-time student. Full-time undergraduate students may apply for Maintenance Grant to help with living cost. Students are not required to pay back grants. They may apply for a Maintenance Grant if household income is within certain threshold. Additionally, students may apply for a Special Support Grant instead of Maintenance Grant, if they qualify for benefit based on household income

Part-time student grants

Grants are also available for students who are studying part-time. Undergraduate students studying part-time might be able to access a Fee Grant and a Course Grant to help them with tuition and other costs to study. Like full-time students, to receive these grants, the household income needs to be within a specified threshold.

Grants for other students

Students pursuing post-graduate studies in teaching courses can also apply for a Maintenance Grant or Special Support Grant. Other students are likely to qualify for the special Support Grant if they are a single parent, their partner is also a student, or if they have certain disabilities.

Applying for grants

The application process for accessing grants is simple. Full-time students may apply online. Firstly, they need to set up a student finance account. They are then, able to complete the online application. Students will need to provide evidence for information regarding their identity and household income. Finally, they will need to sign and return declaration that is sent to them by post. Part-time students, however, apply after they register for their course at the start of term. Their application will need to be stamped and signed by the college or university they are attending. Final word
Many students who are studying at the post-secondary level need to secure funding to complete their studies. This means that parents and students need to explore various avenues available to fund schooling. Parents and students will find the grant programme helpful as they will not be required to repay the amounts that they receive. Source -Directgov (2011). “Student Finance.” (Downloaded from Direct.gov.uk and Accessed on August 2011).