Benefits Recipients

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If you are in receipt of benefits, you should contact your local Benefits Office or Citizens Advice Office for advice on whether you can continue to claim while studying on your course as full-time students are not normally entitled to receive benefits, however, there are some exceptions.

If you are eligible to receive Universal Credit (UC) while studying, or will have a change of circumstances prior to the start date of your course (such as giving up work) and will need to make a claim for UC, you will be assessed for a maximum bursary maintenance allowance of £28.00 a week. If you receive this allowance, there will be no work-related requirements for UC.

You may also receive funding for travel, study and additional support needs allowances without this having an impact on your UC award. Any maintenance funding awarded over £28.00 a week would reduce your UC award on a pound for pound basis.

You are eligible for Universal Credit if you’re studying full-time and any of the following apply:

  • you are under 21 when you start your course and you are without parental support
  • you are responsible for a child
  • you live with your partner and they’re eligible for Universal Credit
  • you are over pension age and live with a partner who is under that age
  • you are disabled and have limited capability for work (assessed by the DWP) and get disability living allowance (DLA) or personal independence payment (PIP)

Please see the Government Guidance for Universal Credit and students - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)