UK student finance, scholarships, and other funding

Last modified: 31 July 2023

This page provides you with introductory information on funding your studies. However, the information presented here is not definitive, and you can also talk to your chosen university or college about ways of funding your studies.

UKCISA is not a funding organisation and we do not give grants or scholarships.

In this page we provide you with introductory information, and links to some relevant information from Government and other bodies.

Student Support is the name given to financial support provided by the Government to eligible students in the UK. Student Support is not considered as one of the 'public funds', as defined in paragraph 6 of the Immigration Rules. Therefore, a student with UK immigration permission containing a condition stating "No recourse to public funds" would not be in breach of that condition by applying for, and receiving, Student Support.

 

Government Student Support for undergraduate study

Last modified: 31 July 2023

Basics of Student Support

Eligible courses

Incorrectly refused, or not eligible for, Student Support

Applying for undergraduate Student Support

Last modified: 31 July 2023

Across the UK, Student Support is broadly composed of: a loan for tuition fees; a loan for living costs; and certain supplementary grants for specific categories, for example disabled students. However, there are some variations by country. 

England

Scotland

Wales

Northern Ireland

Funding for other study, including postgraduate courses

Last modified: 31 July 2023

This section gives you links to information about the funding available if you are studying in the UK as a postgraduate student and/or in certain specialist subject areas.

Government Student Support for postgraduate study

Research Council funding and other options for postgraduate study

Other types of subject area

Scholarships, from Government and other support bodies

Last modified: 31 July 2023

Scholarships are normally limited in number and have specific target groups. They are also normally highly competitive and most, though not all, are aimed at postgraduate level students. For undergraduate studies, scholarships (which include bursaries and partial fee waivers) are rarer. However, a number are offered by UK universities or colleges. In most cases you will have to gain an offer of a place on a course at a UK institution before you are eligible to apply for any scholarship.

You will be expected to have investigated whether you are, firstly, eligible for Government Student Support.

General information and academic scholarships

Scholarships for vulnerable groups, including asylum seekers and refugees

Claiming welfare benefits or working

Last modified: 31 July 2023

This information is for you if you entered the UK under the Student Immigration Rules.

Can I claim welfare benefits?

Can I fund my studies with my work income?

Can I take a gap year and work full time?


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