Reviewing your financial situation
It is expected that students will secure the necessary funds to cover their fees and living costs before arriving at Oxford. However, if you find yourself in financial difficulty while enrolled on your course, the University and its colleges have a number of funds available to support students.
If you are experiencing financial difficulties you should take the following steps:
1. If you are a Home student (paying fees at the 'Home' rate), you should check you have applied for all government funds to which you are entitled.
For undergraduate and PGCE students, this relates principally to the maintenance support and/or tuition fee support as well as any extra support available, as outlined on the Gov.uk website.
For graduate students, this relates principally to Master’s or Doctoral loans, as well as government allowances.
There are also government allowances and benefits available to students who have extra needs, such as students with a disability or student parents who may be eligible to claim child benefit, tax credits or universal credit.
2. Speak to your college
If you are in financial difficulty you should usually approach your college or hall in the first instance. Colleges understand the financial constraints students experience and are aware of the impacts of increased costs of living on students' finances. They will be able to offer advice on the support that you may be eligible to apply for, including any relevant College Financial Assistance schemes. If you do not have a college, you should contact your department in the first instance.
3. Assess your financial situation
Consider whether there is any action you can take to improve your financial situation before seeking assistance. Review your spending habits and identify areas where spending could be reduced, for instance by looking at your bank statements. You may also find it useful to refer to the Managing your budget webpage. The University is committed to helping students in financial difficulties and is very aware of the increased costs of living, but cannot offer assistance where financial issues may be caused by excessive and unnecessary expenditure.
4. Check your eligibility to apply for financial assistance from the University
Students in financial difficulty may be eligible to apply for centrally administered Oxford Financial Assistance schemes, which provide a range of support according to your circumstances. Students should check the deadlines in place when considering applying for this support.
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