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Update on cost-of-living support measures

abstract piece, different shades of blue arranged in square-like shapes
  • Written byStudent Communications
  • Published date 28 November 2023
abstract piece, different shades of blue arranged in square-like shapes
Summer Show abstract piece by Kehkashan Khalid, MA Fine Art Digital

We are aware that the cost of living remains one of the biggest challenges for students studying in London. Over the last year, we trialled a wide range of financial support measures to address your concerns based on your feedback about what you care about the most. As a committed student community, you have told us that more money should be directed to those students who need it most.

Amongst other measures, we trialled a reduction in printing prices as well as across our materials shops and e-store. These 2 discounts will be discontinued, and the subsidy redirected to Bursaries for students with the lowest family income. The UAL Bursary will increase to £1,300 this year, providing increased financial support to 3,000 students from low-income backgrounds.

This decision was prompted by feedback for financial support to be more targeted to disadvantaged students, as well as the environmental impact of lower printing costs which increased the amount of printing undertaken.

Printing costs will revert to their autumn 2022 rates from 2 January 2024. The prices on the e-store will gradually return to their original prices throughout this term.

Printing costs from 2 January 2024

A4 Colour

15p

A3 Colour

24p

A4 B&W

4p

A3 B&W

8p

Many of the other measures put in place last year are still available for students to access, including increases to the size of payments from the UAL Hardship Fund, free period products, lower cost food options and free graduation robes for recipients of the UAL Bursary or Hardship Fund. Find out more about these on our cost-of-living support page.

Advice and support

Our Student Advice Service is here to give you tailored financial support and advice. This includes:

  • How to apply for student finance and additional funding
  • Debt advice and support with debt negotiation
  • Applying for state benefits and any issues related to your application
  • Money management and budgeting

We also have a comprehensive careers service that supports you with getting paid work while you’re studying and after graduation. Explore the Student Careers hub and sign up for Arts Temps to get access to a wide range of paid creative opportunities.