What is it all going to cost?

Going to university or college is potentially one of the biggest investments your son or daughter will make. You need to know how much it will cost them and what help is available.

There are two main elements to student finance: the tuition fees payable to the university or college and the money required to cover living expenses or 'maintenance'. Some financial help is means-tested, which means that the amount given to your son or daughter is based on your household income.

This section gives a brief summary of the costs involved and the support that is available. See also student finance for further information.

Tuition fees
Amounts vary from one institution to another - if a student loan is taken out, tuition fees are paid direct to the university or college on the student's behalf.

Grants
For living expenses - means-tested and non-repayable.

Bursaries
Institutions that charge maximum tuition fees also offer non-repayable bursaries to students who receive the full grant.

Maintenance loans
Means-tested and repayable - the maintenance element is paid to the student and the tuition element is paid direct to the institution.

Useful websites
Places to go for further information about finances.