Essay Writer University Guide: Getting Funding for University Education

It’s the start of the academic year once again, and some students are entering university for the first time. This year marks the start of tuition fees as high as £9,000, which means that the number of people able to afford a university education will be significantly fewer than in previous years. With every pence going out of your pocket needing to be accounted for, it is important for students to have an idea of your financial obligations and rights.

• Student Loans. While there is no question about the steep tuition fee rise, on the bright side you still can earn a degree without putting the entire amount up front. You can opt for a loan from the Student Loans Company. You won’t have to start repaying until the April following your graduation, and only if you earn above £21,000. The money is deducted at source by your employer at a monthly interest rate of 9% of anything over £21,000. There’s also interest to due on the outstanding balance, set at RPI plus 3% depending on your income range. After 30 years, any remaining debt gets written off.
• Grants, bursaries and scholarships. You may apply for a bursary if you’re from a lower income family. A Maintenance Grant is available for full-time students whose household income is £42,600 or less while a Special Support Grant is available if a student is a single parent, has certain disabilities, or whose partner is also a student. Most universities and colleges also give out bursaries that aren’t connected to any other student finance you may qualify for, such as discounts on in-house accommodation or books. Many universities, colleges and charities also offer grants and scholarships, most of which require you to achieve or maintain a certain grade or study a certain subject. Get advice on what’s available through your university or the Educational Grants Advisory Service (EGAS).
• Support for Disabled Students. Additional financial help paid on top of the standard student finance package to students with disabilities includes: Disabled Students’ Allowances (from Student Finance England), Access to Learning Fund (from your university or college), Disability Living Allowance (from the Disability and Carers Service), Employment and Support Allowance (from Jobcentre Plus), Incapacity Benefit (from Jobcentre Plus).