Applying, Step 4: Finance and Money!

If you haven't already, I've just received my reminder to reapply for student finance. The website is www.studentfinance.gov.uk

Survival is a very important part of studying, and if not working full-time hours around your studies, Student Finance is the first place you should go, there are loans available at very reasonable interest rates (make sure you check them carefully for any surprises as you are charged from your very first payment), and grants available for those with children, adult dependants, and even just you yourself if you are over a certain age and living independently. You are not obliged to take any of these, and can pick and choose, for instance in my first year I took out a loan but now I am trying to get my income from other sources that I don't have to repay (grants, tax credits, casual work etc.).

Tuition Fees however, unless you are lucky enough to have a sponsor, you must apply for (and as soon as possible) to pay for your course. You must be careful to dot the i's and cross your t's here as you cannot attend your degree units without your fees, and you cannot get your fees without attending study (these are all paid directly to your university). There is a Student Finance desk near SiD (student information desk) that will help you if stuck but do get over there soon as possible if you're having any issues - the last thing you want is someone telling you to come back next year!

And don't forget your supporting evidence, the Student Finance website is marvellously laid out so after making an account and applying, your instructions and reminders will show up on your account page. Hop to!