Other Sources of Finance

At the University of Chester there are a number of possible sources of income for students other than student loans and maintenance grants. Detailed here are the other options that may be available to you before and during your time at university.

Job Shop

A practical and confidence-building way of raising funds is to get a part-time job while you are studying. Student Support and Guidance can suggest a variety of on-campus and local private sector jobs which are available.

University of Chester Bursary

Students who are eligible for a full maintenance grant are also entitled to a University of Chester bursary of £1,000. This is paid in three instalments: December 2009, £319 (mandatory minimum), February £340.50 and May £340.50. It is administered and paid through the Student Loans Company (alongside tuition fee loans and maintenance loans).

It is essential that you submit your application for student support to your Local Authority or Student Loan Company in good time to allow it to be processed before you arrive on Induction Day.

Part-time Students

If you are studying part-time, you could qualify for grants to help pay for your fees and course costs. These are called "fee grants" and "course grants". You should consult the Fee Grants and Course Grants for part-time Students website or contact your Local Authority for details.

Access to Learning Funds

If you get into financial difficulty while completing your course, you may be eligible for financial help from our Access to Learning Funds. Margaret Gilbert, the Student Support Officer, will be able to assist you.

Help for Students with Children or Dependants

If you have children or adult dependants, you may be eligible to apply to your local authority for a "Childcare Grant" or an "Adult Dependant's Grant". You should apply for a Childcare Grant at the same time as applying for a Tuition Fee Loan from your Local Authority. Students with dependant children may also be entitled to claim Child Tax Credit from HM Revenue and Customs and a Parent's Learning Allowance to help with course-related costs, such as books, study materials and travel costs.

Help for Students with Disabilities

If you are either a full-time or part-time student with a disability, mental health difficulties or specific learning difficulties, you can apply for a Disabled Students Allowance (DSA). You will have to provide medical proof of your disability such as a letter from a doctor or specialist. The DSA is paid on top of the other student packages and does not need to be repaid.

Sponsorship and Charitable Trusts

Bursaries are often awarded to cover course expenses such as books, travel and field trips. Information can be found on the Educational Grants Advisory Service (EGAS) website.

Careers in Health and Social Care

Students accepted onto NHS funded Diploma or Degree courses may be entitled to a bursary covering tuition fees and a contribution to living costs. Students studying for a career in social work may also be entitled to a non-repayable bursary. The NHS Student Bursary Scheme website has information on both types of finance.