Full time students are not usually entitled to any means-tested Welfare Benefits.
There are some exceptions though.
You can qualify for Universal Credit (UC) if:
- You are under 21, doing a course that will lead to a qualification at the same level as or below A levels (such as Scottish Highers, NVQ up to level 3), and do not and cannot live with your parents; or
- You are responsible for a child; or
- You get Attendance Allowance, Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP) and you have limited capability for work. (This can be complicated – seek advice); or
- You are over Pension Credit age; or
- You live with a partner who can claim Universal Credit; or
- You have taken time out from your course for illness or caring responsibilities, are now recovered/your caring responsibilities have ended, and you are waiting to go back to your course.
If you are already in receipt of Disability Living Allowance (DLA) or Personal Independence Payment (PIP), you should contact DWP and update them with your new circumstances. If you are in receipt of either DLA or PIP you may, in certain circumstances, also be entitled to Employment and Support Allowance (ESA).
If you are a part-time student, you may be entitled to some benefits if you meet the qualifying conditions - check here for more information Part-time students and other benefits - Turn2us
If you are claiming another benefit, you should continue to do so as your student status should not effect it.
If you think you may be entitled to any Welfare Benefits or have a problem with your existing benefits, contact the WSU Advice Centre.
Useful links: