Income support and Open Uni

[ThisIsAnExtremelyVeryGoodXmas]

Hi, just a quick query. I am a LP on Income Support, I am considering studying via the Open University (low level at first but potentially to degree level depending on how I manage home study). I am concerned however that this may mean I can no longer claim IS, when I called to claim it they asked a lot of questions including whether I was doing any distance learning courses or had been recently. Does anyone know if I can study via OU and still claim IS? Thanks

I know that when you apply to the OU you can get full funding (you apply for a grant) if you are in reciept of IS. You have to link the course you are doing to a degree, although you are not obliged to complete the degree. Once you get your first lot of funding there is a time limit in which to complete your degree with the funding although they do have a discretionary fund which you may qualify for if you go astray on your timings. If you want to go for it you would be advised to get in this year as course costs are going up but will remain the same for students who are already registered for a degree (you may want to check the time limits for this on their website). If you give the OU a call I'm sure they will advise you.