The University of Liverpool's Hardship Fund is now open for students facing serious financial difficulties. The fund offers non-repayable grants to support both UK and international students dealing with ongoing financial issues or unexpected costs.
What the fund covers
UK students can apply for help with essential expenditure such as rent or bills. The fund also supports unforeseen one-off costs causing financial hardship, such as additional travel home due to family illness or unexpected caring responsibilities.
International students can apply for exceptional costs or financial emergencies that could not have been foreseen and are causing financial hardship. International students must demonstrate that before starting their course, they had sufficient finances in place to fund both tuition fees and living costs.
How to apply
The application process involves answering a series of mostly multiple-choice questions about personal circumstances. The University then reviews income and expenditure and advises on any student loans, grants or other income applicants may be entitled to before assessing the application.
Applications can take up to 30 working days to process if all supporting documentation is provided. At busy times, assessment may take longer, so students are advised to apply in good time if experiencing financial hardship.
Guidance on the website helps students decide whether to apply. International students must contact the International Advice and Guidance Team at iagteam@liverpool.ac.uk before applying.
Additional financial support
The University's Money Advice and Guidance team offers confidential appointments to discuss budgeting and financial difficulties. Students can contact an adviser or email money@liverpool.ac.uk to arrange a meeting.
The University also provides budgeting tips and advice on utilities, bills, food, travel and student discounts on its website.
Applications to the Hardship Fund can be made through the University of Liverpool website.