Get planning for university

A new online planner, to help students prepare for university, has been launched by the DfES. Bringing together, for the first time, a wealth of information available to prospective students, the 'Countdown to Uni' planner runs from June to September highlighting key dates, deadlines, tips and advice.

From ensuring soon-to-be students get their Student Finance applications in by June 29th so they get their financial assistance at the beginning of term those who miss that deadline will receive the money later on in the term, to Clearing, to applying for Railcards and Freshers' Week, the planner is a definitive source for the summer months.

Bill Rammell, Minister for Higher Education, says: "There are several key deadlines for undergraduates over the summer months and it is important that they, and their parents, put enough time into preparation. The deadline for financial help for university costs, in the form of loans, grants and bursaries, is June 29th to ensure that students have the money available to them when their first-term starts.

"The new system of student finance support is better and fairer than the old one. Undergraduates can apply for an annual Tuition Fee Loan of up to £3,070, regardless of their household income, so they don't have to find the money to pay their fees upfront."

Rammell adds that students can also apply for a Living Cost Loan to help with rent or food and the loans don't have to be repaid until they've left their course and are earning more than £15,000.

Meanwhile, those from lower income households can apply for a non-repayable Maintenance Grant of up to £2,765 a year and many universities and colleges are offering non-repayable bursaries to provide additional financial support.

For further details go to www.direct.gov.uk/countdowntouni

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2007-06-15 08:05:37 © Moneyextra.com