Money can be tight as a student. We’re here to help you manage your money and deal with any problems that might come up during your time at UCL.
Money worries can be stressful. But you don't have to go through this alone. Speak to the Advice Service as soon as possible, and we can help you plan your next steps.
Important advice
- Try and plan your finances in good time, ideally before you enrol at UCL or soon after arriving. This includes creating a budget, working out what income you will get while studying and what your expenses are likely to be.
- Be prepared to review and adjust your plans if circumstances change.
- Seek advice and support (through the Advice Service or other services) as soon as you think you may have a problem with your money, or debts that you don’t know how to resolve. Dealing with problems early on can mean more options available to resolve them and prevent stress later.
Find out more about budgeting and managing your income.
If you're in debt, we've got some advice to start you off.
Where can I take out a loan?
You are able to apply for low-cost loans to cover your tuition and living costs while at university. These often vary depending on how much your family earns.
Student loans often have a lower interest rate than regular loans, and you don't need to start paying them back until you've left and are earning a certain amount.
There are also bursaries for lower-income families.
What if I start struggling for money?
If you find yourself in financial trouble, you can get help to complete your studies. But remember: These grants are for unexpected issues, and are not a long-term answer.
It is often better to apply for these earlier in the year, as funds can be limited.
What about Postgraduate funding?
You are able to apply for low-cost loans to help with your tuition and living costs while at university for postgraduate study from Student Finance England.
Student loans often have a lower interest rate than regular loans, and you don’t need to start paying them back until you’ve left and are earning a certain amount.
You can also find many sources of scholarships and grants out there.
You might also want to consider finding an employer to sponsor you.
To be eligible for many of these loans, you will need to be a "home student" or EU resident. "Home students" are UK residents, who have lived in the UK for three years before starting the course.
Find out if you are eligible by visiting Gov.uk or the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA).