Funding for Higher Education

Updated on 24 May 2018

Funding for Higher Education
Higher education includes foundation degrees, Higher National Certificates or Diplomas, or undergraduate or postgraduate degrees.
Scottish students and people who have been resident in Scotland for three years or more before starting their course, do not normally have to pay fees to study for a first degree.
Loans and grants are avaiable to help cover living costs. You might also be eligible for other benefits while you study.
Full-time students do not normally pay council tax unless they have another non-studying adult living with them.
To find out more, download our advice guide or call the Lone Parent Helpline on 0808 801 0323.

If you are a single parent studying, or considering studying, a course of higher education (HNC, HND, degree, etc) our advice guide gives a brief overview of financial and other help you may be entitled to.

Note: This is meant as a guide only. There are exceptions to the basic entitlements given here so always check with the Student Award Agency for Scotland (SAAS), or with a student financial adviser at the university or college, before committing yourself.

Students studying health related courses are funded differently. Seek advice from SAAS.

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