Funding and benefits for young people in Higher Education or at university
- Student Finance
- Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)
- Housing Benefit for disabled students
- Finding out more about funding when you're at university or college
Student Finance
You may be able to borrow money to help pay for university or college course tuition fees and to help with living costs while you study. This money is called a student loan and can be borrowed from Student Finance.
You are expected to start repaying your student loan once you earn over a certain amount. The amount you will have to pay back every month will depend on how much you are earning, not what you owe.
Student Finance on GOV.UK (external link)
Disabled Students Allowance (DSA)
You can apply for Disabled Students’ Allowances to cover some of the extra costs you have because of a mental health problem, long-term illness or any other disability.
The amount you get depends on your individual needs.
You can get these allowances on top of your other student finance.
You will not need to repay your Disabled Students Allowance.
Disabled Students Allowance on GOV.UK (external link)
Housing Benefit for disabled students
If you're studying part-time and stay in university-owned housing or halls of residence, you can still claim housing benefit if you fall into certain categories. Examples include having a disability.
England Shelter Students Claiming Housing Benefit (external link)
Finding out more about funding when you're at university or college
When you go to college and university there will be a student support department who will be able to give you specific information about funds and bursaries that students may be able to access. They may also provide some practical support with applying for benefits and funding.
Student Unions are also a good source of support and information.
