Disability Information UKPlain-language information, rights and support

Studying while caring

Students with caring responsibilities can access specific support from colleges, universities and student finance systems, though provision varies widely.

Last reviewed
1 June 2026
Next review due
1 December 2026

Combining study with caring for a family member brings particular pressures, including inflexible timetables, placements, and financial support systems not designed with carers in mind.

Support from colleges and universities

  • Many universities and colleges have a designated staff contact or policy for student carers, sometimes linked to their disabled students' service.
  • Ask about extensions, flexible attendance, and recorded lectures if caring responsibilities affect your ability to attend consistently.
  • Some institutions offer bursaries or hardship funds specifically for student carers.

Financial support while studying

Rules differ between England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, and between further and higher education, so check the specific system that applies to you.

  • Full-time students are not usually eligible for Carer's Allowance, but exceptions and interactions with other benefits exist, so get a benefits check.
  • Some student finance systems have additional allowances or dependants' grants that may be relevant if you support a disabled family member.
  • Young adult carers moving into further or higher education can ask their local young carers' service about the transition.

Checklist

  • Tell your college or university that you have caring responsibilities and ask what support exists.
  • Ask about flexibility around deadlines, placements and attendance requirements.
  • Get a benefits check before assuming you cannot claim anything while studying.
  • Ask about student carer bursaries or hardship funds.
  • Plan ahead for exam periods and placements, which are often the hardest times to combine with caring.

Common mistakes

  • Not disclosing caring responsibilities to a tutor or student services until problems have already built up.
  • Assuming no financial support exists without checking your institution's specific policies.
  • Not planning ahead for placements or exam periods that clash with caring demands.
  • Missing out on National Insurance credit protection while studying and caring at the same time.

Organisations that can help