Finding scholarships

Since October 1998, all ‘home students’ (British and EU residents) commencing full time undergraduate programs must pay from £1,000 in tuition fees. As a result, the British government has had to develop a financial aid program for students entering higher education for the first time. Students whose family's financial situation is modest, may receive financial assistance to pay for their fees. All international students must pay a different tuition fee which is decided on the discretion of each university.

EU students may also apply for and receive financial aid from the British authorities, only if they satisfy the following conditions:
1. EU resident or the child of an EU resident
2. Accepted at a university/school (see categories below)
3. Have been an EU resident for at least three years prior to application
4. Have not been previously inscribed in an educational institutions at the same level

University/schools that are included in the second condition mentioned above:
-Full time or ‘sandwich’ student at the university, schools of higher education or technical-further education:
-The First Degree, the Higher National Diploma candidates
-Initial courses in the Master’s programs, Postgraduate Certificate of Education (PGCE)

Application for financial aid:
If you are already registered in one of the above mentioned institutions, in England or Wales, you can submit an application for financial aid to the Local Education Authority (LEA). The institution of your choice and the institution that offers you an unconditional offer will inform you which LEA you will need to contact. For institutions in Scotland and Northern Ireland, similar organizations will be mentioned to you.
The amount of aid that will be granted to you will depend on the financial capabilities and income or either you or your parents. If the total income of your parents is below or equal to £17,370 per year (or if you are independent of your parents, and your income is below or equal to £14,700) you will most likely be given full financial aid that will cover your tuition fee. If the total income of your parents is equal or above £27,570 per year (or if you are independent of your parents, and your income is equal or above £23,530) you will probably not be given any financial aid. On the other hand, if the total income of you or your parents is between these amounts, then you might receive partial aid, meaning you will have to compensate for any difference.

To receive a brochure containing all the necessary information about Guidance Notes- Financial Assessment Form write to:
Department for Education and Employment (DFEE)
Student Support Division 1
Mowden Hall
Staindrop road
Darlington DL3 9BG
Tel: (00 44) 1325 39 28 22
e-mail: info@dfee.gov.uk
or visit the Ministry of Education website: section HE Students
www.dfee.gov.uk,

You can also request a complete brochure from DfEE titled Financial Support for Students in 2000/2001: A guide for those starting in Higher Education after September 1998. The contact phone number is: (44) 800 731 91 33

Postgraduate and higher studies:
EU students can apply for financial aid in order to pursue their postgraduate studies. The amount of financial aid awarded for this level of study is a decision that is not based on family financial background but on academic excellence. To apply for financial aid for postgraduate studies, candidates must submit their applications directly to the university and the financial aid is delivered to the university and not the student.