Student Carers – help with study-related costs

Open University students in Scotland who have caring responsibilities can apply for financial support available specifically to help them with study related costs.  

We know that many carers have faced challenges in accessing higher education and in managing their studies alongside everything else going on in their lives. This financial support intends to recognise student carers’ achievements and provide some extra support where needed.  

The definition of a carer the OU uses is 'anyone who cares, unpaid, for a friend or family member who due to illness, disability, a mental health problem or an addiction cannot cope without their support'.

There is a Carers’ Bursary available for general study related costs: 

• A single payment of up to £250 per student. 
• For general study related costs, such as an office chair or desk, or internet access. 
• For OU students across the UK. 
• Students must be actively studying a minimum of 30 credits of Open University undergraduate or postgraduate study during the current academic year for which they are applying for a bursary.
• More information on the eligibility criteria and the application form is available to current students by logging onto the Carers’ Bursary webpage. 

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