Uni fee's 2012

[katedan]

After alot of thought and a need to make a positive step to improve my life I have decided to train to be a social worker. I have applied to do a access course from this Sept with the hope of geting a uni place locally from Sept 2012. I as feeling really good that I as taking steps to aim for a career I really want to do but have now realised how much it will cost to do a uni degree from 2012 ( the fee's seem to be between 7 and 8k a year). I don't want this to put me off but it has made me think again. My husband is in full time work so we would not get any help. My question is does anyone else feel this will put them of? and Does anyone know if mature students get any help if they are not on any benefits etc?

I am classed as a mature student(27), I do live at home with my parents but am classed as 'an independent person', this entitles me to a bursary of £1500 a year from the university, and a £3,000 grant from the Local Education Authority.
When you apply for you student loan you can fill in the part that is used to 'means tests' you and your partner and this may entitle you to more help, especially if you have children (childcare costs etc).

You will also be able to claim a 25% reduction from your council tax, you will need to produce a copy of your council tax certificate for the ctax office as proof.

I would look at the situation at the university where you intend to study, they are not all charging the same amount, and you may be pleasantly surprised

Good luck, and keep us posted!

Thank you Melina, this is really helpful. I had not realised about the council tax reducuction and even if I "only" get some help with chidcare costs etc it will make my choice easier.

I want a new career to get financial independance from DH and I hate the fact that the family finances will take a massive hit just so I can go to uni.