A guide to navigating funding
An education is a big investment, but one that will pay off in the future.
Choosing to study can be an exciting milestone, but understanding the funding options available can be daunting. This guide aims to explore the basics of how funding works and the types of funding that may be available to you.
Full-Time Higher Education Funding
For full-time students, funding is accessible through the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS). This includes coverage for course fees, student loans for living costs, and various bursaries and grants. Applications open in April before your course starts, and it's advisable to apply early, even before receiving an offer.
Part-Time Higher Education Funding
Part-time students, earning less than £25,000, can also receive support through the SAAS Part-Time Fee Grant, applicable for courses with 30 to 119 credits per academic year. If you're studying fewer than 30 credits, you'll need to cover the course fees yourself.
Additional Support
Both full-time and part-time students may be eligible for additional support with childcare and accommodation costs. This assistance is available through the UHI Higher Education Discretionary Hardship Funds, Childcare Funds, and the Lone Parent Childcare Grant.
After Accepting Your Offer
Once you accept an unconditional offer, you'll receive login details for your UHI Records account. This account is your hub for managing your funding application, tracking its progress, and accessing award letters. All communications regarding your funding will be through this account, so it's crucial to check it regularly.
Types of funds available:
Childcare Funds
Childcare funding applications are managed through your UHI Records account. For part-time students, awards come from the Discretionary Fund, while full-time students access the HE Childcare Fund. It's important to apply early, as funds are limited and awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Childcare fund eligibility is means-tested based on family income, with a maximum award of £20,000 per student. Payments are made weekly, in arrears, and are only for term weeks. You must use Care Inspectorate registered childcare providers, and any additional hours beyond your timetabled classes are your responsibility.
Discretionary Hardship Funds
The Discretionary Hardship Fund helps full-time students with rent or mortgage costs for students not eligible for Housing Benefit or the Housing Element of Universal Credit. Priority is given to single and mature students, with a maximum award of £4,000 per year. Applications for emergency or one-off assistance can also be made through this fund.
Further Education Funding
For further education students, funding is available through the college's online Student Support Funds application. This covers EMA allowances, bursary allowances for living costs, travel, study costs, and childcare and accommodation costs.
- Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) The EMA provides £30 per week for students aged 16-17 from families with an income below £24,421 (or £26,884 if there are other dependent children). Payments are made fortnightly in arrears and are not available during holiday weeks.
- Further Education Bursary The FE Bursary supports students aged 18 and over with living costs, travel, and study expenses. The amount depends on your household income and living situation, with higher rates for independent or care-experienced students. Students aged 16-17 and part -time students can also get funding support for travel study expenses.
- Additional Support Needs Allowance This allowance supports students with disabilities, covering additional travel or equipment costs. It's not means-tested but requires an assessment by our Learning Support Team.
Our Student Finance Advisors can advise you on all aspects of funding, from tuition fees and bursaries to help with housing, childcare and travel costs. Email: student.services.moray@uhi.ac.uk or call 01343 576354