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Full-Time (HNC/HND)

 

I am studying a full-time Advanced Course, e.g. Higher National Certificate or Diploma Course (HNC/HND). What type of funding is available to me?

Please note that the following information applies to new students who are entering Higher Education for the first time in 2009/10. Full details are available via the SAAS website - www.saas.gov.uk.

NB New Closing Date for 2010/11 applications is 31 March 2011 
If SAAS receive your application after this date you will receive no support, including tuition fees.

Tuition fees
Eligible Scottish domiciled students and EU students will have their tuition fees paid providing they are not repeating any period of study. However, students must apply to the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) if they are to have fees paid on their behalf.

If you do not meet residence or other requirements you will be required to pay the tuition fee yourself.

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What funding is available to support me at College?

The following may be available depending on individual circumstances:

Student Loan - of which an element is means-tested. Any eligible student can apply for the non-means tested element. Rates will vary depending on whether you live with your parents and the length of your course.

Young Student Bursary - this is a non-repayable grant for students with low household income who are:
• under 25 at the start of their course, single and not independent;
• single parents under 25;
• under 25 and married/in a partnership with a dependent child

Independent Student Bursary - this is a non-repayable grant for students with low household income who are:

This award will be paid as a replacement for part of your Student Loan, therefore reducing the amount of loan you need to take out. This award will be assessed by SAAS when you submit your application.

Supplementary Grants - which are non-repayable, are available to students in certain categories. These grants are usually means-tested, e.g:
• Dependants Grant
• Lone Parent Grant
• Lone Parents Childcare Grant
• Travel Grant*
• Disabled Students Allowance

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How do I apply for SAAS funding?

Apply online via the SAAS website: www.saas.gov.uk.
However paper based application forms may be available directly from SAAS in exceptional circumstances. *Please note Travel Grant online application will not be available until December 2010 / January 2011.

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How are payments made?

Loans and grants are paid in monthly instalments on the 7th of each month. The payments are usually made directly into your bank account.

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What should I do if I am unsure about my eligibility for funding?

If you are unsure of your situation you should contact SAAS in the first instance. You can also ask for advice from Aberdeen College Student Advisers:
Student Advisers/Learner Services Reception
Tel: 01224 612284
Email:

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How do I repay my student loan?

The loan must be repaid once you are employed and earning above a certain salary (currently �15,000 per annum). The repayment will not start until the April following the end of your completed course. The loan is repaid by deductions from your wages, over a period of time.

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How can I find out more information about a student loan?

You can contact:
The Student Loans Company Ltd
100 Bothwell Street
Glasgow G2 7JD
Tel: 0870 240 6298
Web: www.slc.co.uk

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Are there any additional sources of funding available to students on advanced courses?

Please see the sections on state benefits and additional sources of funding

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Funding International Students

The regulations regarding international students and tuition fees/student support are complex. If you have any questions about whether you will pay the 'home' or 'overseas' rate of fee for your course, or if there is any financial support available to help you in your studies, please contact Learner Services to arrange an appointment with:
Zuzana Banicova
International Guidance Tutor
Tel: 01224 612284
Email:

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