How to apply for hardship funding at your university

 26th February 2021

The government have announced a £50m support package for students under financial stress during the coronavirus pandemic.

The funding will go towards costs associated with the pandemic such as rent, IT services and support, internet connectivity and other essential living costs.

Universities have been handed the authority individually to decide how they distribute the money as they are better placed to assess their students’ needs.

But how do you apply?

Leeds Beckett University

If you’re a student at LBU, you can apply for hardship funding through their website.

Any undergraduate or postgraduate student is able to apply, as long as they are studying at least 50% of a full-time course (unless unable to manage this due to a disability).

However, certain groups of people are given priority such as students who are parents or carers, are disabled, have left care, are homeless or are estranged from their family.

It is also available to final year students who receive reduced student loan.

University of Leeds

Students at UoL can request a form for hardship payments by emailing their funding team.

Eligibility is means tested against income, with the maximum grant being £3500 and the lowest £50.

Although students can apply for a hardship grant during the Summer vacation, it will only be considered if a student comes under a certain category.

These categories include being a parent/carer, ill or disabled, estranged, or unable to meet course-related costs.

Leeds Trinity

Hardship funding is also available for students at LTU.

The criteria and requirements can be sought by emailing studentfinance@leedstrinity.ac.uk directly.

If you are struggling with making ends meet at university, more information can be found on your respective university’s website.