Most full-time students cannot claim benefits, but there are some exceptions. To find out what you are able to claim, or for help making a benefit application please contact the Student Advice Service. If you are currently claiming benefits, starting a course is a change of circumstance and you should inform your benefit office when you enrol.

Housing Benefit 

The following information may be affected by the introduction of Universal Credit, which begins in October 2013. Universal Credit will eventually replace six benefits, including Housing Benefit, with one monthly payment. 

If you will be under the age of 21 when you begin one of the following courses you may be able to claim Housing Benefit:

• Foundation Diploma in Art & Design

• Access to HE Diploma

You will need to submit a Housing Benefit application to the local council, whether you are living in privately rented accommodation or halls of residence. 

Tax Credits

If you already claim Working Tax Credit and Child Tax Credit and begin a full time course, your student income is not taxable and therefore should not change your tax credits. However, if you work full-time and reduce your hours and earning,s this could affect your assessment.  You should call HMRC to get further advice.

You cannot receive the Childcare element of Working Tax Credit AND apply  for childcare assistance through the Learner Support Fund.  A Student Adviser can help you identify which would be most beneficial in your situation.

Universal Credit (see below) is a new benefit that will eventually replace 6 benefits. Those on Working Tax Credit and a Child Tax Credit will be contacted and moved over to the new system after April 2014.  If you have a significant change in circumstances after October 2013 you may be migrated sooner.

Other Benefits 

Currently the following groups of full-time students may be able to claim other state benefits:

• Disabled students 

• Students with ongoing health issues which prevent them from working 

• Lone parents

• Students estranged from their parents

• Pensioners

• Student who are under 21 in non-advanced education.

If you fall into one of the categories listed, please contact the Student Advice Service for more information.

Universal Credit 

The Government began the roll out of Universal Credit in April 2013. This will replace 6 benefits with one monthly payment:

• Housing Benefit

• Income based Jobseeker's Allowance

• Income Support

• Income related, Employment Support Allowance

• Working Tax Credit

• Child Tax Credit

For further details please visit the Gov.UK website. If you are worried about how this may affect your benefits when you begin studying please contact the Student Advice Service.