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Student finance in Scotland
If you're considering studying in Scotland, it's important to understand how student finance works differently compared to England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. This guide breaks down the unique features of the Scottish system and highlights what sets it apart.
Tuition fees
If you live in Scotland and choose to study full-time at a Scottish university or college, you won't have to pay tuition fees. However, this is not automatic. You'll need to apply to the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS).
Scottish students who wish to study elsewhere in the UK will be charged the standard tuition fees for their chosen course provider but may apply for a tuition fee loan to cover the costs through SAAS.
Part-time students with an individual income of up to £25,000 per year can apply for a part-time Fee Grant (PTFG). The amount paid depends on your course.
Living costs: Loans and bursaries
Scotland provides a combination of loans and bursaries to help with living costs.
Student Loans (repayable)
- Means-tested based on household income
- Different rates for young and independent students (see glossary for definitions)
- Paid monthly – unlike England, Wales, and Northern Ireland which pay termly in three instalments
- You'll receive a double payment in September to help with initial costs, but you can also opt to receive 12 monthly payments
Bursaries (non-repayable)
Scotland offers income-dependent bursaries up to £2,000.
Three types available:
- Young Students' Bursary (YSB): For students under 25 who are dependent on parents
- Independent Students' Bursary (ISB): Non-repayable grant for independent students from lower-income households (different rates)
- Paramedic, Nursing and Midwifery Student Bursary (PNMSB): For Scottish paramedic, nursing, and midwifery students studying in Scotland (non-income-assessed)
How to apply
See below for a step-by-step guide on how to apply via SAAS.
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1
Get your status and funding assessed
SAAS will determine whether you're a Young Student (under 25, living with or dependent on parents) or an Independent Student (25+, married, have children, or financially independent for 3+ years). Your application will be automatically directed to the correct route for you.
Your funding will be then be means-tested using:
- Your parents' household income (if you're a dependent young student)
- Your own household income (if you're an independent student)
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2
Apply to SAAS
Submit your application to the Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS). You can start this process before receiving a university offer.
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3
Receive your funding
Tuition fees: Paid directly to your university by SAAS
Maintenance support: Paid monthly into your bank account, with a double payment in September (unless you opt for 12 monthly payments)
Part-time students Scotland
If you're studying part-time with an individual income up to £25,000 per year, you can apply for a Part-time Fee Grant (PTFG). The amount depends on your specific course.
Studying abroad Scotland
If your household income in under £34k, you're an estranged student, or a care experiences student, you may be able to claim for study abroad costs.
Repaying your loan
Scottish students repay under Plan 4, which typically has a lower repayment threshold than other UK nations, meaning Scottish graduates may begin repaying their loans sooner.
Disabled Students’ Allowance: Scotland
If you're disabled, have a mental or physical health condition, or additional learning support needs, your college or university have a duty to support you and remove or reduce the barriers you face in learning and studying.
Glossary: Scottish student finance terms
Student Awards Agency Scotland (SAAS)
The government agency that administers student finance for Scottish students
Young student
Student under 25 who is living with parents or financially dependent on them; household income affects funding
Independent student
Student aged 25+, living with your partner, has dependent children, or is financially independent for 3+ years
Young Students' Bursary
Non-repayable grant for young students from lower-income households (up to £2,000)
Independent Students' Bursary
Non-repayable grant for independent students from lower-income households (different rates)