Student Finance in Pembrokeshire: A Guide

Navigating student finance can be daunting, especially when you’re from Pembrokeshire and planning your higher education journey. This guide aims to clarify the key aspects of student finance available to Pembrokeshire residents.

Eligibility and Funding Bodies

The primary body responsible for student finance in Wales, including Pembrokeshire, is Student Finance Wales (SFW). Eligibility hinges on several factors, including:

• Nationality and Residency: Generally, you must be a UK national or have settled status and have lived in the UK for the three years before the first day of your course. There are exceptions for refugees and individuals with specific types of leave to remain. Importantly, for Student Finance Wales, you must be ‘ordinarily resident’ in Wales, meaning you consider Wales your permanent home.
• Course Type: Your course must be a designated higher education course, such as a bachelor’s degree, HND, or initial teacher training.
• Age: There isn’t an upper age limit for student finance in Wales.
• Previous Study: If you’ve already completed a higher education qualification, it might impact your eligibility for further funding.

Types of Funding Available

SFW offers several types of financial support:

• Tuition Fee Loan: This loan covers the full cost of your tuition fees, paid directly to your university or college.
• Maintenance Loan: This loan helps with your living costs, such as rent, food, and transport. The amount you can borrow depends on your household income and where you study. Students from lower-income households receive larger loans.
• Welsh Government Learning Grant: This is a non-repayable grant, also means-tested, designed to further support students from lower-income households with living costs.
• Disabled Students’ Allowances (DSAs): DSAs provide extra support for students with disabilities, including long-term health conditions, mental health conditions, or specific learning difficulties like dyslexia. They can cover specialist equipment, non-medical helpers, and other study-related costs.

Application Process

Applying for student finance is done online through the Student Finance Wales website. It’s crucial to apply early, even if you haven’t finalized your university choices. The application process generally involves:

• Creating an account on the SFW website.
• Providing personal details, including your address, nationality, and course information.
• Providing details of your household income (if applying for means-tested support). Parents or partners will need to provide their financial information as well.
• Submitting supporting documentation, such as proof of identity and residency.

Repayment

Repaying your student loan doesn’t start until you’re earning over a certain threshold (currently £27,295 per year). Repayments are automatically deducted from your salary, similar to income tax. The amount you repay depends on your income, not the amount you borrowed. If your income falls below the threshold, repayments are paused. Outstanding loans are typically written off after a certain period (currently 40 years).

Further Support

Pembrokeshire County Council and local schools and colleges may also offer bursaries or scholarships to students from the area. Check their websites or contact their student support services for more information.

It’s essential to research all available funding options and plan your finances carefully to make the most of your student experience. Don’t hesitate to contact Student Finance Wales directly for personalized advice and guidance.