Financial Assistance
For most European Union students Higher Education support is means-tested so that tuition fees may be met in full or in part by a government awards body. Any support may be subject to a contribution that is assessed on the financial means of the student as well as the student's parents or spouse.
Such support is intended to cover approved fees, which are paid direct to the University by the awarding body and by the student, according to the assessed level of liability for each party. Rules governing the means-testing of tuition fee contributions are available from the awarding bodies.
Support from government agencies
The awarding body to which students need to apply for financial support is dependent on the applicant's country of domicile.
- Scotland
Financial support is provided to students ordinarily resident in Scotland through the Student Awards Agency for Scotland (SAAS) (Tel. 0845 111 1711). - England
Local education authority grants may be available as well as student loans. Full details are provided by the Department for Education and Skills (DfES). - Wales
Useful information is available on the Student Finance Wales website or from your local education authority. - Northern Ireland
Applications for financial support should be made through a student's local Education and Library Board (ELB). Full details are available from the Department for Employment and Learning (DELNI). - European Union (non-UK) countries
Residents should contact the relevant education authority in their home country to find out what support may be available. The local British Council may also be able to provide guidance. - Non-European Union countries
International students should contact the relevant authority in their home country to find out what financial support may be available to assist with tuition fees and living costs. There are a number of organisations incluing the British Council, Foreign and Commonwealth Office and Department for International Development that offer scholarships to qualified overseas applicants. - Students from the US
For information on loans for students who are US Citizens click US Loans for Undergraduate Students.
Other sources of student support
Certain foundations and other bodies give financial help to students. Applicants who are resident overseas can usually obtain information on scholarships from their Ministry of Education, from the appropriate inter-university organisation, if there is one, or from the British Council.
The University of St Andrews offers a limited number of entrant scholarships and other financial awards, which may be held in addition to any SAAS or LEA award.
Notes:
- Liability for Tuition Fees. Applicants should note that it is a condition of registration with the University that they accept liability for their tuition fees and that it is the applicant's responsibility to apply to an appropriate body for any necessary support with fees.