State benefits

Most students cannot claim state benefits such as Income Support (IS), Job Seekers Allowance (JSA) and Housing Benefit.

However there are a small number of exceptions who may be able to claim state benefits, for example:

single parents
one of a couple with dependent children, or
the registered disabled.

Note however, that regulations are extremely complex and you should check with your local Jobcentre Plus for specific advice. You may also contact your college or university's (or the college/university you are applying to), Student Support Department or Student Services Office for information on your entitlement to state benefit.

As a student you may also be able to get help with prescriptions, glasses and dental treatment.

Parents of students in non-advanced education and certain types of approved training can continue to claim child benefit up to the end of the period of training, or reaching age 20, whichever comes sooner.

This applies to parents of those aged 16 or 17 on Get Ready for Work or Skillseekers where the trainee receives a Training Allowance as opposed to a wage.

For further information visit Child Benefit Qualifying Young Person website.
For further information on benefits, visit the Jobcentre Plus and Department for Work and Pensions websites.
Download Child Benefit Questions and Answers (Word format - 110kb)