Understanding Student Finance for Part-Time Students (Part 1)

Navigating the world of student finance can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re studying part-time. Unlike full-time students, the funding landscape for part-time learners operates under different rules and eligibility criteria. This guide aims to demystify the process and provide you with a clear understanding of the financial support available in the UK for part-time undergraduate students. This is part 1 of a series, focusing on initial eligibility and available loans.

Who is Eligible for Part-Time Student Finance?

Eligibility for part-time student finance hinges on several factors, primarily your course intensity and prior qualifications. The most crucial element is the course intensity. This refers to the percentage of a full-time equivalent course you’re undertaking. To be eligible for a Tuition Fee Loan, your course intensity must be at least 25% of the full-time equivalent. For example, if a full-time course lasts three years, your part-time course should ideally take no more than 12 years (3 years / 0.25).

Beyond course intensity, you must also meet nationality and residency requirements. Generally, you need to be a UK national or have settled status and have lived in the UK for at least three years before the start of your course. There are exceptions for refugees, those granted humanitarian protection, and family members of UK nationals working abroad.

Your previous qualifications also play a role. You generally can’t get funding for a course at the same level or lower than one you’ve already completed. For instance, if you already hold a Bachelor’s degree, you typically won’t receive funding for another Bachelor’s degree, even if it’s in a different subject. However, there are exceptions for certain subjects like medicine, dentistry, and architecture, and for those upgrading from a lower-level qualification (like a Foundation Degree) to a full Bachelor’s degree.

What Loans are Available?

Primarily, part-time students are eligible for a Tuition Fee Loan. This loan covers the cost of your tuition fees, up to a certain limit depending on your course intensity. The exact amount you can borrow varies, so it’s essential to check the Student Finance England (or your relevant funding body: Student Finance Wales, Student Awards Agency for Scotland, Student Finance NI) website for the latest figures.

Unlike full-time students, part-time students are not typically eligible for Maintenance Loans to help with living costs. However, if you’re studying a part-time postgraduate course, you may be eligible for a Postgraduate Loan. We will explore this in a later part of this series.

How to Apply

Applying for student finance is done online through the Student Finance England (or your relevant funding body) website. The application process requires information about your course, your personal details, and your household income (if you want to be assessed for any additional support). It’s crucial to apply early, even if you haven’t been officially accepted onto your course, to ensure that funding is in place when your course starts. Late applications can delay your funding.

Stay tuned for part 2, where we will delve into other potential sources of funding, including bursaries and scholarships, and provide tips for managing your finances as a part-time student.