Print this pageFAQs on Tuition Fees
What will university cost me?
Everyone has heard that from 2006 the fees for university courses were raised. You may think that you will not be able to afford to study, however, read the following questions and answers.
Are there any upfront fees?
Well the truth is that you can start your university level course without paying a penny. In fact if you are studying one of our Bournemouth University courses at the UCY you will receive £500 that you can use towards your expenses.
Can I pay after finishing my studies?
Once you have finished your university level course you will not need to repay your fees until you are earning at least £15,000 a year. Fees are then repaid in proportion to your earnings. But remember that as a graduate you can expect to earn a higher starting salary than non graduates.
Are there any grants available for living expenses?
Students still need to apply to their Local Education Authority (LEA) for a financial assessment to qualify for a student loan, but they may also be eligible for a means tested grant towards their living expenses.
Where can I find out more information about student finance?
More information about university finance for UCY students on Bournemouth University courses, can be found on the Bournemouth University website - UK/EU students information or part-time study information
Applying for student finance is explained on the government website.
My household income is high; do I still have to apply to the LEA?
Yes. If you do not apply you could be charged the FULL fee of around £8000 per annum. By applying for Financial Assessment you limit your liability to £3145.
Is a student loan mandatory?
No. A student loan is not mandatory. It is offered to most students and is there if you need to access it during your course. However, if you do not take out your student loan you are unable to use the Access to Learning Fund if you find yourself in financial difficulty whilst on your course.
How much will I be eligible for?
How much you will get will depend on whether you have dependants to care for (either elderly dependants or children). Your Local Education Authority should be able to work out a rough guide as to what you could expect to get if you contact them with your personal circumstances. A dependant's grant is available to cover the costs of childcare or elderly care.
What other funding is available to me as a full-time student?
As well as the non means tested bursary of £500, and any means tested support you receive from your LEA, you can also apply for means tested bursaries from Bournemouth University. Any bursaries due to you are also paid through the Student Loans system – just remember to tick the "Consent to Share" box.
Providing you have taken out your full student loan entitlement, you may apply to the Access to Learning Fund. Application is through the Student Support Office and awards are made either annually, or termly depending on your circumstances. The Access to Learning Fund can be used for any course associated cost – accommodation, travel, childcare etc but not towards course fees.
If you have additional learning needs you may be eligible for a Disabled Students Allowance. Please contact the UCY HE Academic Advisor on 01935 845482.
What funding is available to me if I decide on a part-time course?
The new Financial Support package for part time students was introduced in 2006. There is (currently) a maximum grant available of £1180 towards fees and a further grant of £255 to cover course-associated costs. Both parts are means tested. For further information contact your Local Education Authority.
Can I pay part-time course fees in instalments?
It should be possible to pay course fees over £400 in instalments. Please contact the Student Support Office for more details.
