Young parents in Higher Education
It can be tough when you’ve got the responsibility of a child’s future as well as your own. However, extra financial help is available (on top of the standard student finance package) to help young parents like you study at University or HE College.
Don’t worry that you’ll be on your own – many thousands of young parents are bringing up children while they study to a higher level. They know that improving their qualifications will give them - and their child - the best possible start in life.
What can I study?
You could do a HNC or HND, a Certificate or Diploma of Higher Education, or a Foundation Degree or Bachelor Degree. There are over 50,000 different courses and subjects to choose from!
You might decide to get a qualification related to a specific job or vocational area - such as nursing, teaching or software engineering – or a more general subject such as psychology, music or IT. It’s entirely up to you!
The following websites will help you get a good overview of Higher Education:
- uni4me
The section called ‘What about my family’ answers questions raised by young parents interested in HE. - Getupgo
Learn about other student’s experiences in the ‘MY HE Story’ videos, and find out what HE could do for you - The Higher Education section of this site has lots of information on study options and how to apply for a HE course
What extra financial help can I get?
Depending on your circumstances, you may be able to get:
- the Childcare Grant (to help with your childcare costs)
- the Parents’ Learning Allowance (to help towards your course costs)
- help through the Access to Learning Fund (if you’re in financial difficulty)
- Child Tax Credit
For information on all of the above, check the extra financial help on offer at Direct.gov
Remember - help for students with children is paid on top of the standard student finance package. Take a look at the standard student finance package in the Money for study section of this site
What practical help is available for students with young children?
- Many Universities and Colleges run their own nurseries or crèches, which may be cheaper than other childcare and conveniently located for student parents. Places are often limited, so there may be a waiting list - ask at the University or College.
- If your child is 3 or 4 years old they are entitled to 12 ½ hours per week free early years education for 38 weeks a year. For more information and to find local childcare facilities click here or talk to your Connexions Personal Adviser
Help from Connexions
Why not talk to your Connexions Personal Adviser for information, advice and guidance on your HE options. We will be happy to help you with your application if you decide it is for you.
