The Access to Learning Fund exists to assist full or part-time Higher Education students who are facing financial hardship or unexpected changes in personal circumstances.

It should be used to:

• Assist those who need extra financial help to meet specific course and living costs that are not already met from statutory or other sources of funding (e.g. Student Finance).
• Intervene in cases where a student may be considering giving up their course or leaving Higher Education because of financial problems.
• Provide emergency financial support for unexpected financial crises.

Money from the Access to Learning Fund is paid on top of the standard student finance package. A student can therefore not be considered for the fund unless they already receive student finance.

It may be possible to apply for help from the fund to meet course-related costs such as childcare, travel expenses, books/equipment or general livings costs such as rent.

If you do qualify for a payment from the fund it will usually not have to be repaid. A student may apply once they are enrolled and must collect and complete a form from Learner Services.

The Access to Learning Fund is open throughout the year whilst funds permit.