Student Advice Centres
Almost all universities and colleges, as well as most larger students’ unions will have some form of advice centre offering support and information in relation to student finance. Such centres are highly experienced in dealing with students, with an expert understanding of the system. They will also be non-judgemental so you don’t have to worry about explaining your situation.
Often you are able to drop in for advice, or you can pre-arrange an appointment – note that some centres may be closed outside of term-time. Others will also run workshops on budgeting and other financial matters, and all will have various resources you can access. NUS provides a copy of the Student Support and Benefits Handbook to all member students’ unions.
Use you student’s union or institution’s website for contact details, or contact the student services department. Otherwise, you may be able to find the contact details of your local centre on the National Association of Student Money Advisers’ website.
Specialist websites for students
Student Parents
A resource for student parents with information on funding, including a funding calculator and other tips.
UKCISA
UKCISA is a charity which works on international student affairs. They have an extensive information section on funding for international students, as well as support for UK students wishing to study overseas. They also have a helpline, which is open 1pm to 3pm Monday to Friday. The number is 020 7107 9922 – note that the line can be very busy.
Money 4 Medical Students
A site with information and advice for students on medicine courses.
Family Action - Educational Grants Advisory Service
The charity Family Action provide a service which helps individuals search the many trusts and charities providing grants for education for those which could help them.
General financial advice
There are also a number of sources of generic financial advice. This includes the Citizens’ Advice Bureau, which can offer general help on money and benefits through its website or face-to-face appointments. The website contains a list of local CAB offices.
If you are having problems with commercial debt, then several charities also exist to offer specialist advice. It's important that you get professional advice from a neutral source, as many 'debt advice' companies exist and although they may give you a free consultation to start with, this is often so they can sign you up to their own plans, usually with hefty fees attached.
However, free and impartial debt help can be provided through certain debt charities. They include:
CCCS (the Consumer Credit Counselling Service). This have an online service called Debt Remedy that gives you immediate debt advice, a personalised budget and a recommendation on the best way forward for you. This service is free and anonymous. They also have a helpline you can call on 0800 138 1111.
Their sister charity Credit Action also has a number of resources around credit and debt management on its website.
Alternatively you can contact the National Debtline either through their website or by calling 0808 808 4000.