University Fees

[scoobydooby]

Can anyone advise me? I'm confused about the costs etc of Uni (daughter plans to go next year). I understand she'll get a loan which effectively pays her fees? Also, she'll get so much each year which will presumably cover her rent? Will she have any money left over or will she have to find a part-time job? She currently works p/t for a well known chain and we assumed she'd probably apply for a transfer. However, I'm now told that working every weekend will probably be too much for her! We are planning to give her money each month but I would rather that went towards her loans so that she doesn't come out of Uni with so much debt. The thought of a 20 grand debt scares the hell out of me! Can students really survive on the money they get?

[bimbo123456]

We currently have two children at uni. It is very expensive. The loan for fees covers the fees. There is a separate maintenance loan which supposedly covers rent etc but our experience is that this doesn't come close. Depending on which course your daughter is doing she will probably only have about 3 lectures a week with the rest of her work being on her own. Many students manage a part time job. There is also the possibility of a grant (which is not paid back) dependant on your income(s) If they receive this the uni will often give a (not paid back) bursary as well. Last year both of ours got �1000 in grant and bursaries and that meant they didn't have to work as we pay their rent. We are striving to pay the rent so that they don't end up with the �20,000 debt you mention. What a nightmare though. All the best to your daughter.

[scoobydooby]

Thanks bimbo! Blimey - I don't think I could cover her rent every month let alone the rent for two! I think our income is too high to get any assistance. Is there a cut off point (earnings wise) where it's considered you earn too much to qualify for help?

[Buenchico]

The UCAS website has loads of information about student finance:
http://www.ucas.com/studentfinance/index.html

Chris

[pingping]

not sure what degrees your kids are doing bimbo, but students at the uni i work for have at least 12 hours of teaching time each week.

[KayofH]

This is the site where you'll both have to fill in all your details, has lots of info.
http://www.studentsupportdirect.co.uk