Debt studies
Question
I am a full-time student but I didn't apply for a student loan when I started uni. I felt I didn't need to because a family member used to pay my rent, but for the past couple of months they haven't been able to help out. I'm planning on getting a job once I finish my exams in a couple of months - is there any help I can get to pay my rent until then?
Answer
You can apply for a loan from the Student Loans Company (SLC) up to nine months after the start of your course. If you're in time, it might be the best option since the loans have low rates of interest and don't have to be repaid until you're earning over a certain amount (currently £15,000 a year).
If the SLC is unable to help then you could see if your university has a hardship fund you can apply for to help you out. You could also approach a high street bank for a loan, but since the credit crunch hit the economy these tend to be less willing to lend at attractive rates of interest. They will always charge a commercial rate of interest, so shop around and make sure you don't get into more debt than you can manage.
While you're a student, it's not normally possible to claim benefits. Once you've finished university, however, you may be able to apply for Jobseeker's Allowance (JSA), Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit. They won't help with paying any arrears you may have accrued, but they could help you stay in the house until you find a job.
Updated: 12/04/2010
Question answered by CAB
