With the cost of living crisis effecting students all over the country, we asked CAP what advice they have for students facing financial difficulties. Here's what they said. 

Got the maximum student loan you’re entitled to and still struggling to make ends meet? You’re not alone. An online poll commissioned by Radio 1 and BBC Newsbeat found 52% of 16 to 24-year-olds asked said their biggest worry was the rising cost of living and inflation. Many young people are struggling with the current cost of living; add trying to live on student loans and you’ve got a recipe for worry and stress. Not what you need when you’re trying to focus on studying. 

However, there may be grants and other benefits you can access that you don’t know about. Read below to find out where you could access some much needed cash so you can return your focus to your course.  

Create a budget

Firstly, make a budget to eliminate areas that could be draining your finances. CAP’s practical guide to making a budget will help you work out your incomings and outgoings, and whether you’re able to balance your budget. Once you’ve created your budget, you should be able to see how much you’re short each month or term.

Access support from your university

Most universities have grants available for students who are struggling financially. Check your university website or ask at student services about hardship funds. 

There’s also help available for students with a disability, long-term health condition or specific learning difficulty. Find out how to apply for Disabled Students’ Allowances here.

There’s also help available for students with children. Find out more about the Childcare Grant, Parents’ Learning Allowance and Adult Dependents’ Grant.

Your department may offer specific help if you’re studying on a relevant course, for example if you’re training to be a social worker or teacher. Check your department's website for more information.

Access support from other schemes or charities

Some charities provide grants to support you in your studies. Use the Turn2us Grants Search to find out what grants you may be eligible for.

 

You could be entitled to benefits 

Depending on your situation you could be entitled to benefits you don’t know about. Use the Turn2us benefits calculator to find out. 

Get debt help

If you’re in debt and don’t know how to tackle it, find a local CAP debt centre near you.

Get CAP debt help local to you.