Financial support

As a dedicated 16-19 College our courses are free at the point of delivery and all essential costs such as textbooks and course printing are covered by the College.

However, we recognise that there may be wider costs associated with attending College, which is why we are committed to ensuring that we remove any financial barriers to accessing our enriching and enlightening experience. Access to this financial support is dependent upon household income. We participate in two national support schemes:

16 -19 Bursary
Free School Meals

If students don’t qualify for either of these, they can access our own dedicated Hardship Fund. This fund is for those who experience exceptional financial hardship during their time studying at the College. Applications for support from the Hardship Fund are considered on an individual basis.

Please note that applications to these schemes can be taken prior to enrolment, but we are unable to confirm applications or issue funds until a student is successfully enrolled.

What financial support is available for students?

1. Student Bursary

Student Bursary Applications – priority 1

If a student supports themselves financially, are in care or are a care leaver, then they can apply for significant financial support as a ‘priority 1’ application for vulnerable students;

Vulnerable Student Support means students who are defined as:

16-19 year olds in care/care leavers
16-19 in receipt of Income Support or Universal Credit in their own name
16-19 disabled in receipt of Employment Support Allowance & in receipt of either Disability Living Allowance or Personal Independence Payments in their own name

Student Bursary Applications – priority 2 and 3

If students fall into one of the following categories, they may be eligible for financial support;

Priority 2: Students who received free school meals during Year 11 at school (Year 11 leavers only) or whose total annual household income (including tax credits and benefits) is below the free school meals threshold of £16,190

Priority 3: Students who are not already classified as Priority 1 or 2 who have a financial difficulty and a short-term, specific educational or independent living cost, which they cannot meet, for example; cost of transport. This applies to students whose household income is between £16,190 and £25,000.

The bursary group will be determined by the HNC Student Finance Team. Students will be notified via email of their bursary group.

To apply online, please click here

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