If you're worried about the cost of higher education, there are a range of finance options available when studying at Sunderland College. These range from tuition fee loans, which you only have to repay when you earn a certain amount, to grants, which you don't have to pay back.
As a full-time or part-time higher education student at Sunderland College you don't have to pay any tuition fees up front.
Instead, you can take out a tuition fee loan from Student Loans Company. This loan will only need to be paid back once you've completed your course and only when you start earning over £27,295* a year (* 2023/24).
You can find out more information about applying for a Higher Education student loan on the Student Loans Company website.
The loan is paid directly into your bank account at the start of each term, and you will have to pay the loan back.
You may have to give details of your household income in addition to the tuition fee loan. Full-time students are also entitled to a Maintenance loan for living costs.
We have experienced staff available who can talk you through studying if you are unemployed. Advice is available about the fee remission policy, hours of study, clarification of the Jobseekers' Allowance regulations, and we can also give guidance on the possible effects of studying whilst on a disability benefit.
If you're struggling due to your financial circumstances or have any questions about what support you may be eligible for, please speak to a member of the Finance Support team by emailing welfare@educationpartnershipne.ac.uk.
Advanced Learner Loans are available for those aged 19 plus to undertake Level 3 to Level 6 qualifications.* If your course is not free, they provide financial support for tuition fees and are paid directly to the college on your behalf.*If you study an Access to HE course and progress to a degree, your Advanced Learner Loan will be completely written off when you graduate so you won't have to pay back your fees.