Will I be able to get help with my rent?
You may be able to get help with your rent if you are a student and you:
- Are studying full-time, aged under 19, and following a course of further education. As soon as you reach the age of 19 you will no longer be entitled (Further education means 'A’ Levels, not degrees)
- Are a student aged under 20 for whom child benefit is payable
- Are part-time
- Are a lone parent
- Are a pensioner
- Are disabled, if you are in receipt of the Disability Premium (DP) or the Severe Disability Premium (SDP)
- Receive income support
- Have a partner who is not a student
- Are a student couple with dependant children
What if I have a partner - can they claim?
If you are part of a couple, but you are a student who cannot claim benefit (as shown above), you will not be able to claim benefit. However, please note that if your partner is not a student, your partner can make a claim for benefit. This will be the case regardless of whether the tenancy is in your name or your partner’s name.
Can I claim for my rent if I am a nurse on a diploma course?
Yes, but only if you:
- are a lone parent
- are disabled
- have a partner who is not a student
- are a student couple with dependant children
If I get help with my rent, how long will it be payable for?
You will receive housing benefit payments during your period of study, including over Christmas and Easter holidays.
Can I receive housing benefit during the summer holiday/vacation?
Yes, if you continue to occupy the accommodation you are paying rent for.
How do I claim housing benefit?
You will need to complete a claim form. Please follow the link on this page for ‘How to make a claim’.
The only people living in my household are students - do we still have to pay council tax?
No, if you and all the other residents are students, your property will be exempt from council tax.
What happens if I am a student and I don't fit into any of the above criteria - can I still get a reduction on my council tax bill?
Your council tax bill could still be reduced if other adults in your home are on a low income - this is called second adult rebate. For more information about second adult rebate, follow the link on this page.
Please contact the Benefits Service if you need more information.