We know that money can be an area of worry for many students. We also know that by being at University, you are investing in your future and we want to make sure you are getting the best value for money whilst you are here.
It is not uncommon for some students to arrive at University without basic money skills, or to not be sure about what costs are really involved.
We want to make sure you have some basic tips that can help you get the best value for money and make your money stretch as far as possible.
We can give you advice on budgeting, benefits, discounts, shopping and travel to help you get the best value for money.
*Q Is there any help available with budgeting?
*A You can access our budgeting spreadsheet, which can really help when it comes to working how much money you have coming in and how much you have going out. As an Advice Centre, we will be happy to go through this with you once you have filled it in and make suggestions for potential cost savings.
*L Download our student budgeting tool here.
*Q Am I entitled to claim welfare benefits?
*A Some students are able to claim welfare benefits such as Universal Credit although benefits are not available to the majority of students in full time study. Students who have previously been in receipt of benefits are obliged to inform the DWP that they are now in full time education and in receipt of student finance. The DWP will take the amount of student finance you could receive into account even if you chose not to access it. https://www.gov.uk/universal-credit
*Q I am struggling to manage on my student finance. What options are there for students?
*A You should first check that you are receiving the maximum amount of student finance you are entitled to. You could also think about taking part time employment to fit in with your studies, something that is increasingly becoming a necessity for students. Some students, such as lone parents, may be entitled to claim welfare benefits. Aside from this, you could make an application to the University's Financial Support Fund or another of their grants and bursaries, but ensure you read all relevant criteria. You could also apply to charities and foundations for financial support if you meet their criteria. If you need pointing in the right direction, get in contact with the Advice Team and we can assist.
*Q Will all my child care costs be funded by Student Finance England?
*A Child care costs are means tested on current household income. SFE will pay 85% of your childcare costs or a fixed maximum amount, whichever is less. You can see more here: https://www.gov.uk/childcare-grant
*Q What is the Mayflower Award and can I get it each year?
*A The Mayflower Award is available to 1st year students only, who meet certain eligibility criteria. The amount is usually paid in two instalments and is administered through your SFE account. You can read more about this aware by clicking here.
*Q What is the Financial Support Fund and can I apply more than once?
*A The University has a Financial Support Fund which you can apply to each year you are studying. It is only available to home students, not international students. The Fund cannot assist with payment of tuition fees and it is expected that students put in place sufficient funding prior to the start of the course. However, if you experience unforseen hardship, the Fund may be able to assist. https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/fees/scholarships-bursaries-and-funding/bursaries
*Q I am an EU student and am having difficulty to manage financially. Is there any financial help for EU students from the University?
*A Yes, EU students who are currently enrolled can access the EU Hardship Fund: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/fees/scholarships-bursaries-and-funding/bursaries
*Q I am an international student, is there any financial assistance I can get from the University?
*A Options are limited. However there is the International Student Emergency Fund, which is only there to support international students incurring unexpected costs resulting in hardship. Criteria for this fund is strict, so it is important that you read the relevant information. The Fund will close on Friday, July 4, 2025 or once funding has been exhausted (whichever comes sooner). You can find out more here: https://www.plymouth.ac.uk/study/funding/bursaries-and-support-funds/international-student-emergency-fund
*Q Do I have to pay Council Tax?
*A Students enrolled on a full time course at the University do not have Council Tax liabiity. The University will supply Plymouth City Council with details of the names and addresses of students within its boundaries but if you live elsewhere you will need to notify the Local Authority that you are a registered full time student. Your Faculty Office should be able to provide you with a letter confirming this. If a student ceases to be enrolled on a full time course, they should check their tenancy agreement for information on their Council Tax liability.
*Q Will my EHIC card cover my health costs in the EU?
*A Now that the UK has left the EU, there are some changes to cover for health costs. Current EHIC cards are valid until they expire. If your EHIC card has expired or you do not have one, you will now need to apply for a GHIC - check the link for details of eligibilty and how to apply: https://www.nhs.uk/using-the-nhs/healthcare-abroad/apply-for-a-free-uk-global-health-insurance-card-ghic/
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Last Updated: April 2025