Previous study
I have already done all or part of a higher education course. Can I still apply for support?
We will not normally pay tuition fees, the Bursary or the Additional Loan if you have previously been on a full-time higher education course at HNC, HND, degree or equivalent level, and had help from public funds to do so. However you can still apply for the student loan and any supplementary grants that may apply to you, including travel expenses.
We appreciate that it is difficult to know if you have made the right choice of course. On one occasion only we allow what we call a 'false start'. If you do no more than one year of an HND, degree or equivalent level course and do not progress into the second year, we will ignore the support we gave you for this year and give you the full support package again to start another HND, degree or equivalent level course. A false start is not available for an HNC or similar level course.
The rules relating to previous study are complicated. If you are in any doubt about your entitlement, you should contact us as soon as possible for advice.
Repeat years
Will I get help if I am repeating a year?
We normally make awards for the shortest time it takes to complete your course. If we have already given you funding, we do not normally give you full funding if you need to repeat all or part of your course, or if you need to increase the time it normally takes to complete your course.
Your entitlement to tuition fees and (if these apply) the Bursary and the Additional Loan may be affected. However, you can still apply for a student loan for living costs and any supplementary grants that may apply to you, including travel expenses. We may make an exception to this rule only for medical or strong compassionate reasons. We will need supporting evidence from you, your institution and, if appropriate, your doctor or any independent person who can confirm your circumstances. If you apply for support to repeat a year we will write to you and confirm what information we need to consider your case.
Our previous study rules can be complex, if you want to discuss your case please contact us.
Studying abroad
What help will I get if I am studying abroad?
As long as you are only studying abroad for up to a maximum of one year as part of your course in the UK, you will be able to apply for the normal support available. If your study abroad is compulsory or part of an ERASMUS or similar exchange you may get extra support with your living costs and help with your air fares and medical insurance