The Access to Learning and Hardship Funds

These funds are administered by the Student Financial Support Office based in the Carrington Building.  Application forms can be picked up from the Carrington Building Help Desk, or The Hub in the Students Union Building (where an advisor can help you with the application).  They can also be downloaded from the University of Reading Student Financial Support website.

Access to Learning Fund

This fund is available to Home Students who are studying full-time or part-time (at least 50%).  Both undergraduates and post graduates are eligible.                                                                                                                                                              The purpose of the fund is to help students in financial hardship.  Money may be given as a loan or a grant depending on the circumstances.  A student can apply more than once to the fund - particularly if there have been changes in financial circumstances.   Students should normally have applied for full student funding / benefits before applying to the fund (with occasional exceptions).  

Supporting the following students is a priority for the fund:  students who are parents, students with disabilities, students in their final year, part-time students.

Applications are usually assessed and awarded within 3 weeks.  If you need urgent help, seek advice either at the Student Financial Support Office, or Student Advice in the Hub.

If you are unsure of your eligibility, or would like help completing the form, contact Student Advice in the Hub.

Overseas Hardship Fund

This fund is available to EU and International Students who are studying at Reading.  Both undergraduates and postgraduates are eligible.                                                                                                                                                                                    The purpose of the fund is to help students in financial hardship.  Students will be expected to have some organised funding, and should not rely on this fund for large expenses.  Students with disabilities, students with children, and students who are coming to the end of their studies will be a priority.                                                                                                                                                                                                  
THE FUND IS NOT ABLE TO PAY TUITION FEES

Applications are usually assessed and awarded within 3 weeks.  If you need urgent help , seek advice either at the Student Financial Support Office, or Student Advice in the Hub.           

If you are unsure of your eligibility, or would like help completing the form, contact Student Advice in the Hub. 

Postgraduate Hardship Fund

This fund is available to home, EU and International Postgraduates who are studying at Reading.                                                     T
he fund cannot help with tuition fees.  Students will be expected to have some organised funding, and should not rely on this fund for large expenses.

Applications are usually assessed and awarded within 3 weeks.  If you need urgent help, seek advice either at the Student Financial Support Office, or Student Advice in the Hub.                    

If you are unsure of your eligibility, or would like help completing the form, contact Student Advice in the Hub.

Alumni Study Travel Fund

This fund is available to all students at Reading. 

To apply write to the Student Financial Support Office, with details of likely costs, reason for travel, a recent bank statement and a letter of support from your tutor.