People that are studying full-time usually aren’t eligible for Universal Credit, unless they fall into some specific categories
Universal Credit can provide hundreds of pounds each month to help people on a low income, but full-time students are typically barred from claiming the benefit from the Department for Work and Pensions. However, there are six special categories that exempt certain people from this rule.
These categories all consider a person’s circumstances outside of their full-time studies. A comprehensive list of what qualifies as full-time studying and more information about Universal Credit for students can be found on the Gov.uk website.
Full-time students can still be eligible if they are:
- Aged 21 or under in full-time non-advanced education and lack parental support
- Responsible for a child
- Living with a partner who is eligible for Universal Credit
- Over the qualifying age for Pension Credit and live with a partner who is under that age
- Have received a Migration Notice instructing them to move to Universal Credit
- Disabled, assessed as having limited capability for work before studying and receive disability benefits like PIP, DLA or Attendance Allowance
The first category includes people who have left care provided by the local council or lack parental support. If they turn 21 while studying, the support can continue until the end of that academic year.
Full-time students with children may be eligible even if the child is adopted or fostered. If the claimant is part of a couple, one or both people may be a student.
Receiving other forms of income, such as student loans, can impact the amount of Universal Credit you’re eligible for, but it doesn’t necessarily mean you’re disqualified from receiving the benefit. Tuition fee loans and other study-related costs shouldn’t affect your entitlement.
However, maintenance loans, which cover living expenses and rent, are considered as income and are factored into your Universal Credit calculation. For every £1 you receive from a maintenance loan, your Universal Credit will be reduced by the same amount.
The maximum student maintenance loan you’re eligible for is taken into account when calculating your Universal Credit, even if you haven’t applied for or accepted a loan, or if you receive a lesser amount. Students who receive a Special Support Loan or Grant, designed to help with study-related costs like books, equipment and travel, won’t have this income deducted from their Universal Credit.
To qualify for this special support, you must be eligible for income support, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Housing Benefit or the housing element of Universal Credit. You might be eligible for the Special Support Loan or Grant if, for instance, you’re a single parent or have certain disabilities.
In England, the Special Support Grant was replaced by the Special Support Loan from the start of the 2016 to 2017 academic year. However, in Wales, it’s still referred to as a Special Support Grant. You’ll be informed if you’re eligible for the loan or grant when you apply for student finance.
