The cost of higher education is probably the biggest issue for students and their families. But it really shouldn’t be. There is so much financial help available, particularly for students from families with low to average incomes. The amount of money you could get includes loans to cover tuition fees and, in some cases, living expenses. There is also extra help available for students with additional needs who might need specialist support or equipment.

Some loans don’t have to be paid back, and for those that do, students are only expected to start paying them back once they have a job that pays over £15,000 per annum. Even then the repayments are very small – although you can pay off more if you want to!

If you are worried about having a student loan, or you would like extra cash to help cover your living costs, you might want to get a part-time job whilst you are studying. This can be a great way to meet new people and to get valuable work experience which will stand you in good stead once you graduate.

So whether you are thinking of studying full-time, part-time, or even studying from home via The Open University, it’s really important that you check out all of the financial help that’s out there, and make sure you’re getting everything you’re entitled to.

To find out more about the full range of financial help on offer, visit the DirectGov website. 

Aimhigher Nottinghamshire student guide to higher education finance
For finance with a local flavour, Aimhigher Nottinghamshire annually publishes the ‘Student Guide to Higher Education Finance’. As well as giving an overview of the financial packages available nationally, you can also find out bursary information from local higher education institutions and from local further education institutions that offer higher level qualifications.

There is also a useful guide to budgeting, tips on choosing the right course and links to useful websites. The guide is completely free of charge and you can view/download a copy here.

If you would prefer a printed copy of the guide, simply contact our publication order line on 0115 848 2757, email info@aimhighernotts.co.uk.