It doesn't grow on trees…

Money may not grow on trees, but funding options for new students wishing to pursue their studies with the OCA are more generous than many people seem to think. We aim to give full information on our website here, but from calls we receive, it is clear that the national Governments have not yet got the message across about the extent of support for part-time study. So here are a few points that come up regularly.
It depends on where you live
The OCA is based in England, but your eligibility for a loan or a grant depends on where you live. There are loans available for students living in England and grants available for students living in Wales and Northern Ireland. Unfortunately there is no support available for students living in Scotland.
English myths
‘There’s an upper age limit’ There is no upper age limit for the tuition fee loan. Many people seem to think that the upper age limit of 60 for full time student maintenance loans also applies to the tuition fee loan, but this is categorically not the case.
‘I earn too much’ The loan is not based on your income. You do not need therefore to give Student Finance England extensive information about your personal circumstances.
‘You don’t have to start paying back until you finish the degree’ This is perhaps the strangest aspect of the funding system – although you can take 12 years to study for a degree, repayments on the initial parts of the loan start after four years. However, you will not pay anything every year your income is below the threshold (currently £21,000) and above this the repayments are on a sliding scale.
I already have a degree, is there any support?
The support available through the Student Finance bodies is only available for the first degree, however you are likely to be still eligible if you went to University and didn’t graduate, for example if you left early through ill-health. For students who are ineligible for Student Finance, the OCA has a bursary fund which those experiencing financial hardship. Details are here.
I have a disability which means I need additional support
This is where Disabled Students’ Allowance comes in. It is awarded on top of any Student Finance funding and provides for specialist equipment, fees for helpers and other additional costs. It is needs assessed – i.e. not based on income.
Where can I get definitive information?
The first point of call is probably the relevant Student Finance website for England, Wales or Northern Ireland However we recognise this is complex, so if you have any questions about the OCA arrangements, please speak to Dee Whitmore, or in her absence Lee Openshaw. Both can be contacted via our Freephone number 0800 731 2116.
Image: Lone Ash on the Lincolnshire Wolds ©Mike Pickwell