Nothern Ireland 2013/14 - grants and loans

Student grants

1st cycle full-time – the support package includes a need based grant for living costs. The maximum is GBP 3 475 (for students with a household income of GBP 19 203 or less). In 2011/2, 39 % of applicants were awarded a full grant and 23 % were awarded a partial grant. Students who are lone parents or who have certain disabilities may be eligible for a special support grant.

1st cycle full-time – the support package includes a loan for living costs for all students. The maximum loan is GBP 3 750 for students living in the family home and GBP 4 840 for students living away. The amount is reduced for students who receive a need based grant. Repayment as for tuition fee loans.

1st cycle full-time – all institutions must offer an additional bursary to students who receive the maximum grant for living costs or special support grant. The amount varies.

1st cycle part-time – a need-based grant for tuition fees and other costs is available. Loans are not available.

2nd cycle – with the exception of a few specific disciplines, such as teaching, social work and some health professions, the majority of students following taught programmes are self-financing. Where available, a taught masters studentship is for GBP 6 863. There is some support for students on doctoral research programmes (which may incorporate masters level study). The Research Councils set a minimum level for this stipend which for 2013/14 is GBP 13 726 per year.

Around 60 % of students on taught programmes and 30 % of research students do not receive any support towards tuition fees or living costs.

Loans

Tax benefits for parents and family allowances do not play a role in the student support system.