Managing Your Student Finances

Navigating student finance can feel overwhelming, but you don't have to figure it out alone. This guide breaks down how funding works at Central Film School (CFS), what you are eligible for, and where to find extra financial support if you need it.

Understanding the Student Loan Company (SLC)

The Student Loan Company (SLC) is a government-backed organization that provides loans and grants to help cover tuition fees and living costs while you study.

How CFS Works with SLC

We coordinate directly with the SLC on your behalf, but only if you have:

• Applied for a student loan.
• Officially registered for a course at CFS.
• Attended your classes.

The SLC pays tuition fees directly to CFS at the start of each term.

Important Liability Note: Once you attend a lesson in any given term, you become legally liable to pay the tuition fees for that entire term.

Types of Funding Available

If you need help covering your course or living costs, you can apply to the SLC for several types of financial support.

• Tuition Fee Loan: Covers the full cost of your course fees and is paid directly to Central Film School. This must be repaid.

• Maintenance Loan: Paid directly into your bank account to help with day-to-day living costs like rent, food, and transport. This must be repaid.

• Grants and Bursaries: Additional funds available for specific circumstances (e.g., students with disabilities, students with children, or lower household incomes). These do not have to be repaid.

Note: Your Tuition Fee Loan and Maintenance Loan are combined into a single student loan balance when you graduate.

Is the Maintenance Loan Means-Tested?

Yes. The exact amount of Maintenance Loan you can receive is calculated based on:

• Your household income (usually your parents' or partner's income).
• Where you live while studying (at home vs. moving away from home).
• The fact that you are studying in London, which typically qualifies you for a higher rate to reflect the higher cost of living.

Can I Get Funding for Part-Time Study?

Yes. Student Finance is available for many part-time courses. However, please note that eligibility criteria and funding amounts—especially for maintenance support—may differ from full-time structures.

Financial Support from Central Film School

If you find yourself facing unexpected financial hardship, CFS is here to support you. We offer a dedicated Hardship Fund that all registered students can apply to.

• Review the Hardship Fund Policy to see if you qualify

• When you are ready, you can submit the Hardship Fund Application form here.

External Grants, Bursaries, and Support

There are several external organizations that offer extra financial aid. Unlike loans, most of these grants do not need to be paid back.

Support for International Students

Studying abroad brings unique financial challenges. Here are two vital resources to help you manage them:

Renting & Accommodation Guarantors

Many student accommodation companies in London require international students to pay their rent for the entire year upfront because they cannot provide a UK-based guarantor. If you cannot afford this upfront cost, consider using a specialized guarantor service like Housing Hand, which acts as your UK guarantor for a fee.

UKCISA (UK Council for International Student Affairs)

UKCISA is an incredible resource for understanding your rights as an international student. They offer expert guidance on:

• General financial matters and budgeting advice.
• Understanding costs unique to international students.
• Your legal obligations, including maintaining your visa status through good course attendance.
• Explore their resources directly on the UKCISA Website

Looking for Part-Time Work or Graduate Roles?

Check out these student-focused job boards to find flexible work or career entry roles:

• Graduate Prospects
• Milkround
• TargetJobs
• Graduate Jobs
• My First Job in Film