Crisis Grants and Bursaries for Students in the UK
Published: 26 Jan 2026
Introduction and purpose of this guide
This guide explains crisis grants and bursaries for students in the UK. It helps you find, apply for, and get emergency money. Read this guide to learn what help covers, who can apply, what evidence you need, and what to do if you are refused. Use the step-by-step sections to act quickly when money is urgent.
Why crisis grants and bursaries matter for students
Crisis grants stop short-term hardship from becoming a bigger problem. They pay for food, urgent bills, rent arrears, travel for family emergencies, and course essentials. Without this help, students can miss classes, placements, or lose housing. Grants and bursaries keep students safe and able to finish their studies.
Who this guide is for (undergraduate, postgraduate, part-time, estranged, care leavers, international)
This guide is for all students who may face sudden money problems: full‑time and part‑time undergraduates, postgraduates, estranged students, care leavers, student parents, disabled students, and many international students. Some funds are limited by residency or course type; read each fund’s rules.
How to use this article and what to expect
Start with the “Who provides” and “How to find” sections to locate funds. Use “Preparing your application” and “Step‑by‑step” to apply. Copy the sample supporting statements and templates. Read “If refused” before you apply so you know appeal options. Expect clear steps, practical tips, and examples.
Key terms explained
Crisis grants — definition and typical uses
A crisis grant is a non‑repayable payment for urgent needs. Typical uses: food, emergency travel for a close family death, paying a utility to avoid disconnection, emergency housing costs like short‑term accommodation. Grants are for immediate problems, not regular living costs.
Bursaries — differences from grants and eligibility types
Bursaries are awards linked to wider support needs or course requirements. Some bursaries reward low household income, care‑leaver status, or to help with placement costs. Unlike crisis grants, bursaries can be larger and may be paid across terms. Bursaries can be non‑repayable or conditional on progress.
Hardship funds, emergency loans and short-term support — when each applies
Hardship funds: university pools for students in financial trouble. They often cover a range of needs. Emergency loans: short‑term repayable sums, used when speed matters and no grant is available. Short‑term support: vouchers, food parcels, or referrals to local services. Choose grants when you meet criteria; use loans only if you can repay.
How grants interact with loans, benefits and statutory support
Most crisis grants are not taxable and usually do not count as income for student loans. However, they may affect means‑tested benefits like Universal Credit in some cases. Always ask the fund about reporting rules. If you receive benefits, tell your DWP work coach or UC account if required.
Who provides crisis grants and bursaries
Universities and colleges (hardship funds, departmental funds, student services)
Most universities run hardship funds in student services or finance teams. Departments may hold small pots for course‑specific needs. Check your university website and student portal for application links and guidance.
Students’ Unions and campus-based emergency funds
Many Students’ Unions run emergency grants, food hubs, and small hardship awards. These can be quicker and less formal than central funds.
National charities and trusts (Turn2Us, Buttle UK, Student Minds etc.)
Charities like Turn2Us, Buttle UK, and other trusts offer grants for specific criteria: care leavers, estranged students, or equipment needs. Use Turn2Us’s grant search to find national options.
Local authorities, care-leaver provision and regional schemes
Local councils may offer support to care leavers and young people in crisis. Regional trusts and community foundations sometimes provide emergency help for students in their area.
Private donors, alumni funds and course-specific awards
Some departments, course sponsors, and alumni donors hold funds for students in need. These awards can cover placement costs or travel related to study.
Eligibility — who can apply
Enrolment status requirements (full-time vs part-time, interrupted study)
Most funds require active enrolment. Some funds accept part‑time or interrupted students; others do not. Check each fund’s eligibility. If you are on a placement year, confirm whether placement costs qualify.
Residency and nationality considerations (home students vs international)
Many national funds restrict awards to UK‑resident or “home” students. International students have fewer options; some universities offer small emergency funds to international students. Always check residency rules before applying.
Targeted groups (care leavers, estranged students, disabled students, student parents)
Many funds target vulnerable groups: care leavers, estranged students, disabled students, student parents, or those with specific medical needs. These funds often accept alternative evidence to prove circumstances.
Common exclusions and disqualifying factors
Common exclusions: ongoing living costs, tuition fee payment, non‑urgent debt unrelated to an immediate crisis, or situations caused by student misconduct. Read fund guidance to avoid wasted applications.
What costs are usually covered
Immediate essentials: food, utilities and household supplies
Food shopping, supermarket vouchers, and payment for utilities at risk of disconnection are typical. Some funds provide food parcels or vouchers instead of cash.
Housing-related support: rent arrears, emergency accommodation, deposits
Funds often pay rent arrears to prevent eviction, short‑term emergency accommodation, or a tenancy deposit to secure housing. Some funds pay landlords directly.
Travel costs: placements, compassionate travel, placement interviews
Grants can cover travel for essential placement work, interviews, or to visit a seriously ill relative. Proof like tickets or official letters helps.
Course-related costs: equipment, field trips, placement expenses
Funds can buy necessary equipment, cover mandatory trips, or pay placement fees. Departmental funds are useful for course‑specific costs.
Childcare and dependent-related expenses for student parents
Some grants support childcare or small costs related to dependents. Evidence of childcare needs and receipts are important.
Medical, dental and mental-health related emergency costs
Urgent medical or dental bills and immediate mental‑health related costs (e.g., short‑term therapy where NHS waiting times are long) are sometimes covered.
Typical award sizes and payment methods
Typical ranges (£50–£1,000+), examples and when larger awards apply
Small awards: £25–£200 for food or vouchers. Medium: £200–£1,000 for rent arrears or placement costs. Larger awards may exist for exceptional needs, long‑term interruption prevention, or course costs.
Payment methods: bank transfer, vouchers, direct payments to landlords/suppliers
Payments can be bank transfers, supermarket or utility vouchers, or direct payments to landlords, estate agents, or suppliers.
Timescales from application to payment and urgent payment options
Standard processing: a few days to a few weeks. Urgent payments: same‑day to 48 hours in some SU or campus funds. Provide clear evidence of urgency.
Conditions attached to awards (reporting, repayment, follow-up)
Some awards require confirmation of spending, progress checks, or short reports. Emergency loans must be repaid under agreed terms.
How to find available funds
University / college webpages and search terms to use
Search your institution site for “hardship fund”, “emergency grant”, “student support”, or “financial assistance”. Use the student portal for links and forms.
Who to contact on campus (student services, financial support team, SU welfare)
Contact student services, the financial support team, your Student Union welfare officer, or course administrator. They can point you to the right fund.
Using national tools: Turn2Us grants search, GOV.UK and charity directories
Use Turn2Us grant search, Gov.uk for benefit info, and charity directories to find national grants and trusts.
Departmental, faculty and placement-specific funds
Ask your department about discretionary funds for placement or course costs. Course tutors often know of small emergency pots.
Local community and faith-based support options
Local churches, community groups, and foodbanks offer immediate help. Community foundations may give small, quick grants.
Preparing your application — documents and evidence
Proof of identity and student status (ID card, enrolment letter)
Have a valid photo ID and an enrolment or registration letter showing your course and dates.
Financial evidence: bank statements, pay slips, benefit letters
Provide recent bank statements showing low balance or essential outgoings, and any payslips or letters proving income or benefits.
Bills, receipts and invoices for the emergency cost
Attach recent invoices, receipts, eviction or disconnection notices, or travel bookings to show the need is real and urgent.
Supporting letters (employer, landlord, GP, social worker)
A short letter from your landlord, GP, employer, or social worker can support your case and confirm urgency.
Evidence of attempts to mitigate the issue (emails to landlord, benefit claims)
Show that you tried other routes: emails asking for payment plans, evidence of benefit claims, or job applications.
How to redact sensitive information and protect privacy
Block out unrelated account numbers or personal details before sharing documents. Keep copies and note who you shared them with.
Step-by-step application process
Identifying the right fund and checking guidance notes
Pick the fund that matches your problem. Read eligibility, required evidence, and closing dates carefully.
Completing online or paper forms: best-practice tips
Write clearly, stick to word limits, and answer all questions. Use bullet points to list costs and attach evidence files named clearly.
Writing a concise supporting statement (template elements and word limits)
State the problem and urgency first. Say how much you need and what the money will pay for. Include dates, a short account of efforts to fix the issue, and what will change if you get help.
Submitting documents and confirming receipt
Upload PDFs or photos of documents. Email or form submission often gives a reference—save it. If unsure, call to confirm receipt.
Following up for urgent cases and escalation routes
If urgent, call the financial support team and your SU. Ask for an expedited decision and explain deadlines (eviction date, travel date). Ask for escalation if you don’t get a reply.
What happens after approval (payment, conditions, referral)
You will get payment as agreed. Keep receipts and follow any conditions. Funds may refer you to budgeting or counselling services.
Sample supporting statements and templates
Short urgent template (≤150 words) for immediate needs
“I am [name], a [year] student on [course]. I need £[amount] urgently to pay [rent/food/travel] because [brief reason, e.g., unexpected loss of job/eviction notice dated X]. I have attached my enrolment letter, bank statement, and eviction notice. I have applied to [other help tried]. This payment will prevent [eviction/missed placement]. Thank you for your quick help.”
Standard supporting statement (250–400 words) with evidence checklist
Include: 1) short summary of need and amount, 2) timeline of events, 3) evidence list (ID, enrolment, bank statements, invoices, supporting letters), 4) actions you have taken, 5) statement of impact and proposed use of funds. Attach all documents.
Appeal letter template after refusal
State the decision you received, explain any missing evidence you can now provide, and clearly outline why the decision should be reviewed. Attach new evidence and request a reconsideration within the fund’s timeline.
Email template to request faster processing for urgent cases
Give your student ID, the fund applied to, the deadline (eviction, travel date), and list attached proof. Ask politely for expedited processing and give a phone number for immediate contact.
Common reasons applications are refused and how to avoid them
Missing or unclear evidence — how to present bank statements and receipts
Highlight relevant transactions, provide recent pages, and redact unrelated details. Label receipts and explain their connection to your request.
Applying to the wrong fund — understanding fund purpose and eligibility
Match your need to the fund’s stated purpose. If the fund is for course costs, don’t ask it to cover general living costs.
Poorly worded statements — clarity, urgency and specificity
Be concise. State exact amounts and dates. Explain the urgent outcome (eviction, missed placement) and what the grant will change.
Timing issues — applying too late or outside academic breaks
Apply as soon as you know there is a problem. Some funds close or have limited awards during vacation periods.
What to do if you suspect discrimination or unfair treatment
Ask for written reasons, contact your SU advice service, and seek external advice from Citizens Advice or the university’s equality office.
1 “Crisis grants stop short‑term problems from becoming long‑term barriers to study.” 2 “Ask early, apply clearly, and keep proof — speed and evidence win emergency awards.” 3 “A small supporting statement, with dates and receipts, often decides urgent funding.” 4 “Use multiple help routes: university funds, the SU, charities, and local services together.” 5 “Budgeting and a tiny emergency fund protect your study as much as any grant.”M Amir
What to do if your application is refused
Request written reasons and decision-maker contact details
Ask for a written explanation and the name or contacts of the decision‑maker. Note deadlines for appeals.
Internal appeal processes at universities and typical timelines
Most universities have an appeal or review route. Submit new evidence or correct errors and follow the published timeline.
Alternative funds and emergency options (SU, charities, foodbanks)
Turn to SU funds, national charities, local community funds, foodbanks, or campus food hubs while you appeal or reapply.
Seeking external advice: Citizens Advice, Student Money Advice, legal aid referrals
Citizens Advice and Student Money Advice can offer free help on appeals, benefits, or landlord disputes. Legal aid may apply in some housing cases.
Support for specific vulnerable groups
Estranged students — dedicated bursaries and evidence accepted
Estranged students often have access to specific bursaries. Evidence can include a letter from a student support officer or social worker instead of family evidence.
Care leavers — local authority support and transition funds
Care leavers may receive funds from local authorities and special transition bursaries. Universities often have dedicated teams to help.
Disabled students — DSA vs hardship funds and specialist grants
Disabled Students’ Allowance (DSA) covers many disability‑related course costs. Hardship funds can fill gaps for living or immediate costs not covered by DSA.
Student parents — childcare grants, local support and departmental help
Student parent bursaries and childcare support exist. Provide child benefit letters, receipts for childcare, or evidence of children’s details.
International students — limited options and university-specific funds
International students have fewer national options. Many universities keep small emergency funds for international students—ask student services.
Interaction with benefits and Student Finance
How crisis grants affect means-tested benefits (Universal Credit guidance)
Crisis grants can affect Universal Credit if treated as income. Check with DWP or Citizens Advice before accepting large cash awards. Some funds give vouchers or direct payments to avoid affecting benefits.
Student Finance maintenance loans: This guide explains how maintenance loans work, who qualifies, how to apply, and how repayments interact with other income. It outlines eligibility rules for home and international students, typical loan amounts, and the effect of additional funding on means‑tested support. Use it to check whether a hardship award may influence your maintenance loan or to find contact details for Student Finance. https://ukbenefitsguide.online/student-finance-maintenance-loan-guide-eligibility-apply-repay/
Impact on student loans, maintenance loans and means-tested support
Most crisis grants do not reduce student loans. If a grant is large enough, it might affect means‑tested maintenance support—confirm with Student Finance England.
Reporting requirements to DWP and Student Finance (when necessary)
If required by the fund or benefits rules, report grant income. Keep documents showing the grant purpose to explain it’s an emergency award.
When grants are treated as income and when they are not
Treatment depends on the payer and benefit rules. Non‑means‑tested bursaries for study may not count as income. Always check with the issuing body.
Universal Credit for students: The linked guide explains when students can claim Universal Credit, who is eligible, and how full‑time study affects entitlement. It covers key rules about households, earnings thresholds, and reporting requirements, plus practical steps to apply and what documents claimants need. Read it for clear, student‑focused advice on whether a crisis grant might affect Universal Credit and how to declare emergency payments. https://ukbenefitsguide.online/universal-credit-for-students-uk/
Legal, housing and welfare rights to be aware of
Tenant rights and emergency eviction advice (where to get help)
Students have tenant rights. If facing eviction, contact Citizens Advice, your university accommodation office, or a housing solicitor urgently. Ask your council for homelessness advice if needed.
Reporting safeguarding concerns and serious welfare issues
If your situation involves abuse, exploitation, or immediate danger, contact university safeguarding, local authorities, or emergency services.
Health rights and accessing NHS/mental-health support
Use NHS services and student mental‑health teams. Some funds may help pay for private therapy while you wait.
Data protection and how institutions handle your information
Universities handle your documents under data protection rules. Ask how records are stored and who has access if you have privacy concerns.
Short-term alternatives while you wait for a decision
Foodbanks, campus food hubs and community kitchens
Use local foodbanks and campus food hubs for immediate food support. These are quick and confidential.
Interest-free student loans, salary advances and credit options (risks)
Some institutions offer interest‑free emergency loans or salary advances. Use these carefully and confirm repayment terms.
Crowdfunding and informal support networks
Crowdfunding can help for defined costs but takes time and is not guaranteed. Use close networks for small, quick loans.
Negotiating with landlords and service providers for payment plans
Ask landlords or suppliers for payment plans or short extensions. Provide proof you have applied for support.
Preventing future crises — budgeting and planning
Creating a simple monthly student budget (template items)
List income (loans, wages), fixed costs (rent, bills), essentials (food, travel), and savings. Track spending weekly to spot problems early.
Building a small emergency fund and practical tips to save
Aim to save a small amount each month, even £10–£20. Use cheaper food, student discounts, and limit non‑essential spending.
Maximising income: scholarships, paid placements and part-time work
Apply for scholarships, course bursaries, or paid placements. Use on‑campus jobs for flexible work.
Using campus resources: counselling, careers, and money advice services
Use university money advice, careers services for paid work, and counselling to manage stress that affects finances.
Case studies and anonymised examples
Care-leaver prevented from eviction — documents used and timeline
A care‑leaver got a hardship grant after receiving an eviction notice dated X. They sent enrolment letter, bank statements, the eviction notice, and a social worker letter. Decision within 72 hours prevented eviction.
International student emergency food support — process and fund used
An international student used the SU emergency fund and campus food hub after losing shifts. They provided ID, course registration, and bank statement. They received vouchers the same day.
Student parent awarded childcare bursary — application highlights
A student parent applied for a childcare bursary with child benefit letter, childcare invoice, and a brief supporting statement. The bursary covered a month of childcare so the student could attend placement.
Student on placement awarded travel grant — steps and evidence
A student on unpaid placement applied to a departmental placement fund with placement confirmation, travel cost estimates, and supervisor note. Funds paid travel directly to the transport provider.
FAQs — quick answers to common concerns
Sometimes. Check with DWP and Student Finance. Ask the fund whether their award counts as income.
Usually no. Emergency loans must be repaid. Read the fund’s terms.
Some funds accept international students; many do not. Provide passport, visa, and enrolment evidence where asked.
From same day for urgent SU funds to two weeks or more for central funds. Provide urgent evidence to speed up the process.
Checklist before you submit an application
Essential documents to attach (ID, statements, receipts)
ID, enrolment letter, recent bank statement, invoices/receipts, and any supporting letters.
Final checks for clarity and urgency in your statement
State dates, amounts, and the exact outcome you seek
Conclusion
Crisis grants and bursaries are vital, practical help that let students stay safe, housed, and in their studies when money runs out. These funds stop short‑term problems from becoming long‑term crises. They pay for food, urgent bills, rent, travel for emergencies, and course needs. Many students rely on them to avoid missing placements, dropping modules, or losing accommodation.
Know where to look. Start with your university’s hardship fund, student services, and the Students’ Union. Check departmental pots and course sponsors for placement or equipment help. National charities and trusts, local community funds, and council support can also fill gaps. International students should ask their university first, as national options are limited.
Prepare your case well. Gather ID, an enrolment letter, recent bank statements, invoices or eviction/disconnection notices, and short supporting letters. Show urgency with clear dates and concise facts. Name the exact amount you need and explain how it will be used. Redact unrelated personal data before sending documents.
Apply quickly and clearly. Match your need to the right fund, follow guidance notes, and keep statements short and focused. Use the sample templates to state the problem, the timeline, the evidence, and the impact. If the situation is urgent, call the support team, ask for expedited processing, and provide contactable phone details.
If you are refused, act fast. Request written reasons, lodge an internal appeal if available, and provide any missing evidence. While you wait, use alternative supports: SU funds, foodbanks, campus food hubs, local charities, or short interest‑free loans from the university if repaying is realistic. Seek advice from Citizens Advice or Student Money Advice for benefits, housing, or appeal guidance.
Protect your future by budgeting and building a small emergency fund. Use campus services—money advice, careers, and counselling—to reduce the risk of future crises. Apply for scholarships, paid placements, and part‑time work that fits your study. Negotiate payment plans with landlords or service providers before a crisis hits.
Remember: asking for help is practical and normal. Universities and charities expect to help students in hardship. The sooner you act, the better your chances of getting support. Keep records of submissions and decisions, follow up when needed, and use multiple routes—funds, advice services, and community support—to solve urgent problems. Take the next step now: locate the most relevant fund, gather your documents, and submit a clear, urgent application.
Student Finance Made Simple: Your Guide to Maintenance Loans, Eligibility, Application & Repayment
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- Be Respectful
- Stay Relevant
- Stay Positive
- True Feedback
- Encourage Discussion
- Avoid Spamming
- No Fake News
- Don't Copy-Paste
- No Personal Attacks
