Struggling for Uni Funding? Educational Charities can Help
Since university tuition rose to £9,000 in 2012, getting higher education has become even more challenging. There are even fears that this will rise to £20,000 at some point in the future, due to the increase in university applications and the huge decrease in government funding. How can those from deprived backgrounds even consider pursuing a university education with this kind of extortionate cost threatening to throw them into a lifetime of debt?
There is some financial support for those who are set on a higher education, regardless of their socioeconomic background. Not only do universities offer bursaries and grants, but educational charities also provide a little financial help. If you’re concerned about whether you’ll be able to afford university or not, reassess your fiscal options.
What Funding Can You Get?
Every year, there are thousands of charities that hand out cash to hopeful students. It’s unlikely that you’ll get funding for every year of your course, but you may be able to secure a one-time payment to help pay for elements of your course that are especially expensive.
Students rarely receive more than between £300 and £500 from any given charity. This usually goes towards pricy tools or equipment or childcare – something that would make a difference to whether you’d complete your course or not. This small boost could make a huge difference, particularly when there are a variety of courses which are not only highly expensive, but extremely competitive, such as, law degrees. In terms of law, many firms do offer internships / or have done previously like Vincent’s Solicitors, who are based in Preston.
Will You Be Able To Get Funding?
Most educational charities specialise in a certain type of study or occupation. Make sure that you’re eligible before you apply; not all charities hand out cash to just any student. Usually they will only give you money if you’re a first time student – postgraduates will struggle to get some cash from educational charities.
Charities are far more sympathetic towards students who need cash because of unforeseen circumstances, such as being unwell. If you mismanage your student money, they will be less likely to give you a hand-out. Because applications take a long time to process, you need to submit yours with plenty of time to spare, before the beginning of your course. And remember, most charities gain law advice from relevant charity solicitors, ensuring compliance is adhered to from those who wish to partake in any schemes.
How Do You Find Out About Educational Charities?
You can find books in your local library that list these helpful charities. You can usually get this information from your local authority, students’ union, careers service, and Citizen’s Advice Bureau. Alternatively, a Google search might yield some potential options.
Don’t forget that your university will offer bursaries, scholarships, and grants, so it’s always worth checking these out well in advance of your academic year. You should be able to find out about this through your university’s website or through the head of department’s email address. Have a look also at any prizes or competitions you can enter at your place of education. The key is to be organised before term begins! You don’t need to carry on suffering on in silence.